Systems and Methods for Balance Deviation Detection in a Monitoring System

ABSTRACT

Various embodiments provide systems and methods for identifying impairment using measurement devices.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to (i.e., is a non-provisionalof) U.S. Pat. App. No. 62/851,127 entitled “Systems and Methods forImpairment Detection in a Monitoring System”, and filed May 22, 2019 byHanson et al.; U.S. Pat. App. No. 62/936,024 entitled “Systems andMethods for Impairment Detection in a Monitoring System”, and filed Nov.15, 2019 by Hanson et al; U.S. Pat. App. No. 62/939,588 entitled“Systems and Methods for Impairment Detection in a Monitoring System”,and filed Nov. 23, 2019 by Hanson et al.; and U.S. Pat. App. No.62/966,709 entitled “Systems and Methods for Impairment Detection in aMonitoring System”, and filed Jan. 28, 2020 by Hanson et al. Theentirety of each of the aforementioned references are incorporatedherein by reference for all purposes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Various embodiments provide systems and methods for identifyingimpairment using an individual monitoring system.

A number of different substances impair a driver's ability to safelyoperate an automobile or other machinery. Field detection of impairmentdue to alcohol usage has been done using field sobriety testing where,for example, a police officer personally administers one or more testsand based upon the officer's perception a determination of impairment ismade. However, waiting for a traffic stop to detect impairment isproblematic.

Thus, for at least the aforementioned reasons, there exists a need inthe art for more advanced approaches, devices and systems for detectingindividual impairment.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Various embodiments provide systems and methods for detecting impairmentusing measurement devices.

This summary provides only a general outline of some embodiments. Manyother objects, features, advantages and other embodiments will becomemore fully apparent from the following detailed description, theappended claims and the accompanying drawings and figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A further understanding of the various embodiments may be realized byreference to the figures which are described in remaining portions ofthe specification. In the figures, similar reference numerals are usedthroughout several drawings to refer to similar components. In someinstances, a sub-label consisting of a lower case letter is associatedwith a reference numeral to denote one of multiple similar components.When reference is made to a reference numeral without specification toan existing sub-label, it is intended to refer to all such multiplesimilar components.

FIG. 1a is a block diagram illustrating a hybrid monitoring systemincluding both a user attached monitor device and a user detachedmonitor device in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 1b is a block diagram of a user detached monitor device usable inaccordance with one or more embodiments;

FIG. 1c is a block diagram of a user attached monitor device including alocal communication link in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 1d shows a user attached monitor device with an attachment elementfor attaching the user attached monitor device to a limb of anindividual in accordance with some embodiments;

FIGS. 2a-2b are flow diagrams showing a method in accordance with someembodiments for using a combination of a user detached monitor deviceand a user attached monitor device to detect impairment of a monitoredindividual;

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram showing a method in accordance with someembodiments for capturing an eye movement baseline for a monitoredindividual using a user detached monitor device;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a use impairment detection system operatedwithout relying on a user attached monitor device in accordance withsome embodiments;

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram showing a method in accordance with someembodiments for capturing an eye movement baseline for a licensedindividual at, for example, a location where a driver's license is beingissued;

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram showing a method in accordance with someembodiments for using a field user eye movement system for detectinguser impairment that relies on a previously established individual eyemovement baseline;

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram showing a method in accordance with someembodiments for using a field monitored individual eye movement systemfor detecting monitored individual impairment without using a previouslyestablished individual eye movement baseline;

FIG. 8a is a flow diagram showing a method in accordance with someembodiments for capturing a monitored individual reaction via a userdetached monitor device;

FIG. 8b shows an example of a monitored individual holding a userdetached monitor device while the reaction measurement of the method ofFIG. 8a is performed;

FIGS. 8c-8d show different views of a reaction game displayed via theuser detached monitor device of FIG. 8 b;

FIG. 9a shows another example of a monitored individual holding a userdetached monitor device while the reaction measurement of the method ofFIG. 8a is performed;

FIGS. 9b-9c show different views of another reaction game displayed viathe user detached monitor device of FIG. 9 a;

FIG. 10a is a flow diagram showing a method in accordance with someembodiments for capturing an ability of a monitored individual tobalance via a user detached monitor device while the monitoredindividual is standing on one leg;

FIG. 10b shows an example of a monitored individual holding a userdetached monitor device while balancing on one leg while the method ofFIG. 10a is performed;

FIG. 11a is a flow diagram showing a method in accordance with someembodiments for capturing an ability of a monitored individual tobalance via a user detached monitor device while walking; and

FIG. 11b shows an example of a monitored individual holding a userdetached monitor device while walking during the method of FIG. 11a isperformed;

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram showing a method for predicting impairmentbased at least in part on two or more impairment tests in accordancewith some embodiments;

FIG. 13 is a flow diagram showing a method for predicting impairmentbased at least in part on historical data associated with a monitoredindividual in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a multi-tiered impairment detection systemin accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 15 is a flow diagram showing a method for passive impairmentdetection in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 16 is a flow diagram showing a method for learning an impairmentthreshold for passive impairment testing based upon feedback from themethod of FIG. 15 in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 17 is a flow diagram showing a method for detecting impairmentusing a tiered series of passive impairment testing (i.e., the monitoredindividual is doing things in their normal course), active impairmenttesting (i.e., the monitored individual is doing things that they arerequested to do), and/or monitoring officer intervention in accordancewith some embodiments;

FIG. 18 is a flow diagram showing a method for learning an impairmentthreshold for active impairment testing based upon feedback from themethod of FIG. 17 in accordance with various embodiments; and

FIG. 19 is a flow diagram showing a method in accordance with someembodiments for selectively triggering a testing process based upon oneor more conditions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Various embodiments provide systems and methods for identifyingimpairment using an individual monitoring system.

It has been found that returning offenders to society after being lockedup in a secure facility with little if any control of their day to dayactivities is often unsuccessful. It is often helpful to have, forexample, a parole officer monitor their movements and activities for aperiod of time as they reenter society. In some cases, the paroleofficer is aided by a tracking device attached to the individual beingmonitored, or by a portable device typically maintained with theindividual but not necessarily attached to the individual.

Some embodiments provide systems for determining individual impairment.Such systems include a user detached monitor device. The user detachedmonitor device includes: a camera, a display, a processor, and acomputer readable medium. The computer readable medium includesinstructions executable by the processor to: display a series of imagesvia the display of the user detached monitor device; receive images ofeyes of a monitored individual captured by the camera; and using thereceived images detect a level of eye movement by the monitoredindividual. In some instances of the aforementioned embodiments, thecomputer readable medium further includes instructions executable by theprocessor to compare the detected level of eye movement with a baselinelevel of eye movement. In some cases, the baseline level of eye movementis specific to the monitored individual. In other cases, the baselinelevel of eye movement is generic to multiple monitored individuals.

In various instances, the computer readable medium further includesinstructions executable by the processor to report that the monitoredindividual is likely impaired based at least in part on the comparisonof the detected level of eye movement with a baseline level of eyemovement. In some cases, the individual is considered likely impairedwhen the detected level of eye movement is more than ten percent morethan the eye movement in the baseline level of eye movement or less thanten percent less than the baseline level of eye movement. In variouscases, the individual is considered likely impaired when the detectedlevel of eye movement is more than twenty percent more than the eyemovement in the baseline level of eye movement or less than twentypercent less than the baseline level of eye movement. In some cases, theindividual is considered likely impaired when the detected level of eyemovement is more than thirty percent more than the eye movement in thebaseline level of eye movement or less than thirty percent less than thebaseline level of eye movement. In various cases, the individual isconsidered likely impaired when the detected level of eye movement ismore than fifty percent more than the eye movement in the baseline levelof eye movement or less than fifty percent less than the baseline levelof eye movement.

In some instances, the system further includes a user attached monitordevice that is attached to the monitored individual. In such systems,the computer readable medium further includes instructions executable bythe processor to: receive a test setup request from a user attachedmonitor device physically attached to the monitored individual where thetest setup request indicates an eye movement test, and start the eyemovement test by enabling the camera and requesting that the monitoredindividual watch the display.

In various instances, the computer readable medium further includesinstructions executable by the processor to: receive an image of theface of the monitored individual via the camera; and determine theidentity of the monitored individual based at least in part on the imageof the face of the monitored individual. In some cases, the systemfurther includes a user attached monitor device physically coupled tothe monitored individual and communicably coupled to the monitoredindividual.

Other embodiments provide methods for determining impairment of amonitored individual. The methods include: capturing an image using acamera on the user detached monitor device where the image shows theface of a monitored individual; displaying a series of images via adisplay on a user detached monitor device; receiving a series of imagesof the face of the monitored individual via the camera on the userdetached monitor device; using the received series of images to detect alevel of eye movement by the monitored individual; and comparing thedetected level of eye movement with a baseline level of eye movement.

In some instances, the baseline level of eye movement is specific to themonitored individual. In various instances, the method further includes:reporting that the monitored individual is likely impaired based atleast in part on the comparison of the detected level of eye movementwith a baseline level of eye movement. In various instances, the methodfurther includes: receiving a test setup request from a user attachedmonitor device physically attached to the monitored individual andcommunicably coupled to the user detached monitor device, wherein thetest setup request indicates an eye movement test; enabling the cameraon the user detached monitor device; and requesting that the monitoredindividual watch the display on the user detached monitor device. Insome instances, the method further includes: receiving an image of theface of the monitored individual via the camera; and determining theidentity of the monitored individual based at least in part on the imageof the face of the monitored individual.

Yet other embodiments provide systems for determining deviation from abalance norm that include a user detached monitor device. The detachedmonitor device includes: a camera, an accelerometer, a display, aprocessor, and a computer readable medium. The computer readable mediumincludes non-transitory instructions executable by the processor to:capture an image of a monitored individual showing the monitoredindividual moving in accordance with a movement instruction; receivemovement data from the accelerometer time correlated to the image of themonitored individual; generate a balance characteristic based at leastin part on the movement data; and compare the balance characteristicwith a baseline balance threshold. In some instances of theaforementioned embodiments, the baseline balance threshold is specificto the monitored individual. In other instances, the baseline balancethreshold is generic to multiple monitored individuals.

In various instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the movementinstruction is an instruction to walk in a straight line, and thebalance characteristic is a lateral acceleration per step. In otherinstances, the movement instruction is an instruction to stand on onefoot, and the balance characteristic is a lateral acceleration per timeperiod.

In one or more instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the computerreadable medium further includes instructions executable by theprocessor to report that the monitored individual is likely impairedbased at least in part on the comparison of the balance characteristicwith the baseline balance threshold, report that the monitoredindividual is likely impaired. In some cases, the monitored individualis considered likely impaired when the balance characteristic is morethan ten percent greater than the baseline balance threshold. In one ormore cases, the monitored individual is considered likely impaired whenthe balance characteristic is more than twenty percent greater than thebaseline balance threshold. In various cases, the monitored individualis considered likely impaired when the balance characteristic is morethan thirty percent greater than the baseline balance threshold.

In some instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the systems furtherinclude a user attached monitor device physically attached to themonitored individual. The computer readable medium further includesinstructions executable by the processor to: receive a test setuprequest from the user attached monitor device. The test setup requestindicates a balance test. The balance test is started by: enabling thecamera and the accelerometer, and requesting that the monitoredindividual comply with the movement instruction. In various instances ofthe aforementioned embodiments, the computer readable medium furtherincludes instructions executable by the processor to: receive an imageof the face of the monitored individual via the camera; and determinethe identity of the monitored individual based at least in part on theimage of the face of the monitored individual.

Other embodiments provide methods for detecting balance deviation in amonitored individual. The methods include: providing a visualinstruction to a monitored individual via a display on a user detachedmonitor device, where the visual instruction directs the monitoredindividual to move in a particular way; capturing an image of amonitored individual using a camera on the user detached monitor deviceshowing the monitored individual moving in accordance with an movementinstruction; receiving movement data from an accelerometer on the userdetached monitor device, where the movement data is time correlated tothe image of the monitored individual; generating a balancecharacteristic based at least in part on the movement data; andcomparing the balance characteristic with a baseline balance threshold.

In some instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the movementinstruction is an instruction to walk in a straight line, and thebalance characteristic is a lateral acceleration per step. In otherinstances of the aforementioned embodiments, the movement instruction isan instruction to stand on one foot, and the balance characteristic is alateral acceleration per time period. In various instances of theaforementioned embodiments, the computer readable medium furtherincludes instructions executable by the processor to report that themonitored individual is likely impaired via a wireless communicationnetwork based at least in part on the comparison of the balancecharacteristic with the baseline balance threshold.

Yet other embodiments provide systems for determining balance deviationfor a monitored individual. The systems include: a user attached monitordevice physically coupled to a monitored individual, and a user detachedmonitor device communicably coupled to the user attached monitor device.The user detached monitor device includes: an accelerometer, a display,a first processor, and a first computer readable medium. The firstcomputer readable medium includes first instructions executable by thefirst processor to: receive movement data from the accelerometer time;generate a balance characteristic based at least in part on the movementdata; and compare the balance characteristic with a baseline balancethreshold. The user attached monitor device includes: a secondprocessor, and a second computer readable medium. The second computerreadable medium includes second instructions executable by the secondprocessor to transmit a request to begin balance test to the userdetached monitor device via a wireless communication link.

Turning to FIG. 1a , a block diagram illustrates a hybrid monitoringsystem 100 including both a user attached monitor device 110 and a userdetached monitor device 120 in accordance with various embodiments. Alocal communication link 112 facilitates communication between userattached monitor device 110 and user detached monitor device 120. Localcommunication link 112 may be any communication link that is capable oftransferring information or otherwise communicating between two deviceswithin a relatively short distance of each other. In some cases, forexample, local communication link 112 may be a Bluetooth™ communicationlink. In other examples, local communication link 112 may be a line ofsight, infrared communication link. As yet other examples, localcommunication link 112 may be a WiFi communication link. Based upon thedisclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize a variety of communication protocols and/or media that may beused to implement local communication link 112.

User detached monitor device 120 is portable, and may be any device thatis recognized as being used by or assigned to an individual beingmonitored, but is not physically attached to the individual beingmonitored by a tamper evident attaching device. User detached monitordevice 120 may be, but is not limited to, a cellular telephone capableof communication with user attached monitor device 110 via localcommunication link 112. In contrast, user attached monitor device 110 isattached to the individual being monitored using a tamper evidentattaching device like a strap with tamper detection circuitry. Userattached monitor device 110 may be, but is not limited to, a trackingdevice that is attached around the limb (e.g., an arm or leg) of amonitored individual and includes indicators to monitor whether thedevice has been removed from the individual or otherwise tampered. Asanother example, user attached monitor device 110 may be attached aroundthe torso of an individual and capable of determined a respiration rateof the individual based upon sensing a rate of expansion and contractionof the monitored individual's torso. Hybrid monitoring system 100further includes a central monitoring station 160 wirelessly coupled touser attached monitor device 110 and user detached monitor device 120via one or more wide area wireless (e.g., cellular telephone network,Internet via a Wi-Fi access point, or the like) communication networks150.

User detached monitor device 120 includes a location sensor that sensesthe location of the device and generates a location data. For example,when user detached monitor device 120 is capable of receiving wirelessglobal navigation satellite system (hereinafter “GNSS”) locationinformation 130, 131, 132 from a sufficient number of GPS or GNSSsatellites 145 respectively, user detached monitor device 120 may usethe received wireless GNSS location information to calculate orotherwise determine the location of user detached monitor device 120.Global positioning system (hereinafter “GPS) is one example of a GNSSlocation system. While GPS is used in the specific embodiments discussedherein, it is recognized that GPS may be replaced by any type of GNSSsystem. In some instances, this location includes latitude, longitude,and elevation. It should be noted that other types of earth-basedtriangulation may be used in accordance with different embodiments ofthe present invention. For example, other cell phone basedtriangulation, UHF band triangulation such as, for example, long range(hereinafter “LoRa”) triangulation signals. Based on the disclosureprovided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize othertypes of earth-based triangulation that may be used. The location datamay comprise one or more of, but is not limited to: global positioningsystem (“GPS”) data, Assisted GPS (“A-GPS”) data, Advanced Forward LinkTrilateration (“AFLT”) data, and/or cell tower triangulation data. WhereGPS is used, user detached monitor device 120 receives locationinformation from three or more GPS satellites 145 a, 145 b, 145 c viarespective communication links 130, 131, 132. The aforementionedlocation data is utilized to verify the location of a monitoredindividual associated with user detached monitor device 120 at variouspoints as more fully discussed below. User detached monitor device 120is considered “ambiguous” because it is not attached to the monitoredindividual in a tamper resistant/evident way, but rather is freelyseverable from the monitored individual and thus could be used orcarried by persons other than the monitored individual. Variousprocesses discussed herein mitigate the aforementioned ambiguity toyield a reasonable belief that information derived from user detachedmonitor device 120 corresponds to the monitored individual.

The location data and/or other data gathered by user detached monitordevice 120 is wirelessly transmitted to central monitoring station 160via wide area wireless network 150 accessed via a wireless link 133.Central monitoring station 160 may be any location, device or systemwhere the location data is received, including by way of non-limitingexample: a cellular/smart phone, an email account, a website, a networkdatabase, and a memory device. The location data is stored by centralmonitoring station 160 and is retrievable by a monitor, such as aparent, guardian, parole officer, court liaison, spouse, friend, orother authorized group or individual. In this manner, the monitor isable to respond appropriately to the detected out-of-bounds activity bya monitored individual. In some cases, the monitor is able to retrievethe location data via a user interaction system 185 which may be, but isnot limited to, a network connected user interface devicecommunicatively coupled via a network to central monitoring station 160and/or directly to user detached monitor device 120 via wide areawireless network 150.

User detached monitor device 120 may further include a useridentification sensor operable to generate user identification data foridentifying the monitored individual in association with the generationof the location data. The user identification data may comprise one ormore of: image data, video data, biometric data (e.g. fingerprint, DNA,retinal scan, facial recognition, or the like), or any other type ofdata that may be used to verify the identity of the monitored individualat or near the time the location data is generated. And the useridentification sensor may comprise one or more of: a camera, microphone,heat sensor, biometric data sensor, or any other type of device capableof sensing/generating the aforementioned types of user identificationdata.

The user identification data is wirelessly transmitted in associationwith the location data to central monitoring station 160 via a wirelesstransmitter communicatively coupled to the user identification sensor.The user identification data is stored in association with the locationdata by central monitoring station 160 and is retrievable from thecentral monitoring station by a monitoring person, such as a parent,guardian, parole officer, court liaison, spouse, friend, or otherauthorized group or individual. Preferably, the monitoring person isable to retrieve the location data via a network connected userinterface device communicatively coupled—via the network—to centralmonitoring station 160 and/or to user detached monitor device 120. Thelocation data may be transmitted to central monitoring station 160independent of the user identification data, for example, during aperiodic check-in with central monitoring system 160.

User detached monitor device 120 may further comprise a memorycommunicatively coupled to a control unit—which is also communicativelycoupled to the location sensor, the identification sensor and thewireless transceiver—for controlling the operations thereof inaccordance with the functionalities described herein. The memory mayinclude non-transient instructions (e.g., software-based orfirmware-based instructions) executable by the control unit to performand/or enable various functions associated with user detached monitordevice 120. As user detached monitor device 120 is portable, each of thecomponents may be located within, immediately adjacent to, or exposedwithout, a device housing whose dimensions are such that user detachedmonitor device 120 as a whole may be discretely carried by the user, forexample, within a pocket or small purse. User detached monitor device120 may include a Wi-Fi transceiver capable of receiving informationfrom one or more Wi-Fi access points 187 that can be used to discernlocation via a Wi-Fi communication link 109.

Central monitoring station 160 may include a server supported website,which may be supported by a server system comprising one or morephysical servers, each having a processor, a memory, an operatingsystem, input/output interfaces, and network interfaces, all known inthe art, coupled to the network. The server supported website comprisesone or more interactive web portals through which the monitor maymonitor the location of the monitored individual in accordance with thedescribed embodiments. In particular, the interactive web portals mayenable the monitor to retrieve the location and user identification dataof one or more monitored individuals, set or modify ‘check-in’schedules, and/or set or modify preferences. The interactive web portalsare accessible via a personal computing device, such as for example, ahome computer, laptop, tablet, and/or smart phone.

In some embodiments, the server supported website comprises a mobilewebsite or mobile application accessible via a software application on amobile device (e.g. smart phone). The mobile website may be a modifiedversion of the server supported website with limited or additionalcapabilities suited for mobile location monitoring.

User attached monitor device 110 includes a location sensor that sensesthe location of the device and generates a location data. For example,when user attached monitor device 110 is capable of receiving wirelessglobal navigation satellite system (hereinafter “GNSS”) locationinformation 136, 138, 139 from a sufficient number of GPS or GNSSsatellites 145 respectively, user attached monitor device may use thereceived wireless GNSS location information to calculate or otherwisedetermine the location of human subject 110. Global positioning system(hereinafter “GPS) is one example of a GNSS location system. While GPSis used in the specific embodiments discussed herein, it is recognizedthat GPS may be replaced by any type of GNSS system. In some instances,this location includes latitude, longitude, and elevation. It should benoted that other types of earth-based triangulation may be used inaccordance with different embodiments of the present invention. Forexample, other cell phone based triangulation, UHF band triangulationsuch as, for example, long range (hereinafter “LoRa”) triangulationsignals. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skillin the art will recognize other types of earth-based triangulation thatmay be used. The location data may comprise one or more of, but is notlimited to: global positioning system (“GPS”) data, Assisted GPS(“A-GPS”) data, Advanced Forward Link Trilateration (“AFLT”) data,and/or cell tower triangulation data. Where GPS is used, user attachedmonitor device 110 receives location information from three or more GPSor GNSS satellites 145 via respective communication links 136, 138, 139.The location data and/or other data gathered by user attached monitordevice 110 is wirelessly transmitted to central monitoring station 160via wide area wireless network 150 accessed via a wireless link 135.Again, central monitoring station 160 may be any location, device orsystem where the location data is received, including by way ofnon-limiting example: a cellular/smart phone, an email account, awebsite, a network database, and a memory device. The location data isstored by central monitoring station 160 and is retrievable by amonitoring person, such as a parent, guardian, parole officer, courtliaison, spouse, friend, or other authorized group or individual. Inthis manner, the monitoring person is able to respond appropriately tothe detected out-of-bounds activity by a monitored individual.

User attached monitor device 110 may further comprise a memorycommunicatively coupled to a control unit—which is also communicativelycoupled to the location sensor, the identification sensor and thewireless transceiver—for controlling the operations thereof inaccordance with the functionalities described herein. The memory mayinclude non-transient instructions (e.g., software-based orfirmware-based instructions) executable by the control unit to performand/or enable various functions associated with user attached monitordevice 110. User attached monitor device 110 may include a strap (notshown) which can be wrapped around a limb or torso of the monitoredindividual to secure user attached monitor device 110 to the monitoredindividual. The strap includes one or more tamper circuits and/orsensors that allow for a determination as to whether the device has beenremoved or otherwise tampered. Examples of a strap and tamper detectioncircuitry that may be used in relation to various embodiments discussedherein are described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,355,579 entitled “Methods forImage Based Tamper Detection”, and filed by Buck et al. on Sep. 15,2014; and US Pat. Pub. No. US 2017-0270778 A1 entitled “Systems andMethods for Improved Monitor Attachment”, and filed by Melton et al. onMar. 21, 2016. Both of the aforementioned references are incorporatedherein by reference for all purposes. Based upon the disclosure providedherein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety ofstraps, tamper circuits, tamper devices, and/or attachment and tamperdetection approaches that may be used in relation to variousembodiments. User attached monitor device 110 may include a Wi-Fitransceiver capable of receiving information from one or more Wi-Fiaccess points 187 that may be used to identify location via a Wi-Ficommunication link 113.

Central monitoring station 160 is communicably coupled to a historicaldatabase 101. Historical database 101 includes a variety of datacorresponding to a monitored individual including, but not limited to,types of addictions and problems that the monitored individual has hadin the past, last incident of substance abuse and the type of substanceused, physical locations visited by the monitored individual during aprevious time period, physical characteristics of the monitoredindividual (e.g., normal blood pressure, normal respiration rate,resting heart rate, measurements related to gait, and the like), othermonitored individuals that the monitored individual has been inproximity to and the types of addictions and problems that the othermonitored individuals have had in the past, triggering events that havepreceded prior addiction relapses of the monitored individual, and/orrecent scenarios that are similar to prior triggering events. Based uponthe disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize other historical data related to a monitored individual thatmay be maintained in historical database in accordance with variousembodiments.

Turning to FIG. 1b , a block diagram of user detached monitor device 120is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments. User detachedmonitor device 120 includes wireless transceiver circuitry 128 that iscapable of sending and receiving information via wireless link 133to/from wide area wireless network 150. Wireless transceiver circuitry128 may be any circuitry, integrated circuit, and/or processor orcontroller capable of supporting wireless communication. Such wirelesscommunication may include, but is not limited to, cellular telephonecommunication, Internet communication via a Wi-Fi access point, or both.In addition, user detached monitor device 120 includes a vibrator 102, aspeaker 104, and a visual display and touch screen 116. In some cases,at scheduled times a monitored individual associated with user detachedmonitor device 120 is alerted of a need to check-in. The schedule ofcheck-in times may be downloaded to a memory 124 by central monitoringstation 160 via wireless link 133. The monitored individual may bealerted by one or more of: a visual prompt via visual display and touchscreen 116, an audio prompt via speaker 104, and a tactile prompt viavibrator 102. Each of vibrator 102, speaker 104, and visual display andtouch screen 116 is communicatively coupled to memory 124 and/or acontrol circuit 122 for controlling the operations thereof. In somecases, control circuit 122 includes a processor. In various cases,control circuit 122 is part of an integrated circuit. In one or morecases, memory 124 is included in an integrated circuit with controlcircuit 122. In various cases, memory 124 may include non-transientinstructions (e.g., software or firmware-based based instructions)executable by controller circuit 122 to perform and/or enable variousfunctions associated with user detached monitor device 120. Suchnon-transient instructions executable by controller circuit 122 maycause passive impairment monitoring of the monitored individual and/oractive impairment monitoring of the monitored individual similar to thatdiscussed below. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one ofordinary skill in the art will recognize other processes that may becaused/controlled by non-transient instructions executing on controllercircuit 122. A visual prompt may include, but is not limited to, text,images and/or a combination thereof, or a series of such visual prompts.An audio prompt may include, but is not limited to, one or moredifferent audio prompts, or a series thereof. Each prompt may be storedin memory 124 and retrieved in accordance with the schedule that is alsomaintained in memory 124. In some embodiments, alerting the monitoredindividual involves a prompt that includes an e-mail or text messagegenerated by central monitoring station 160 (e.g. the server supportedwebsite) and transmitted to the e-mail account or cellular phone numbercorresponding to user detached monitor device 120. In particularembodiments, such a prompt may include a ‘post’ on the user's ‘wall,’feed,′ or other social networking privilege. In some embodiments, theprompt may comprise an automated or live phone call to the monitoredindividual.

User detached monitor device 120 further includes user monitoringcircuitry 179 capable of gathering user identification informationand/or user characteristics from one or more of motion detector 111, amicrophone 171, a camera 173, a temperature sensor 175, and/or abiometric sensor 177. In some cases, user monitoring circuitry 179 isincorporated in an integrated circuit with control circuit 122.Microphone 171 is capable of accurately capturing the sound of amonitored individual's voice, camera 173 is capable of accuratelycapturing images including, for example, an image of the monitoredindividual's face, temperature sensor 175 is capable of accuratelycapturing an ambient temperature around user detached monitor device120, and biometric sensor 177 is capable of accurately capturingbiometric data about the monitored individual including, but not limitedto, a thumb print, a retinal scan, or a breath-based alcoholmeasurement. Motion detector 111 is capable of accurately sensing motionof the monitored individual. In some cases, the detected motioninformation is used to quantify the gait of the monitored individual orbalance of the monitored individual as they move or perform a particulartask. In some cases, motion detector 111 includes one or moreaccelerometer sensors. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one ofordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of biometric data andcorresponding sensors that may be used in relation to differentembodiments. Under the direction of control circuitry 122, usermonitoring circuitry 179 assembles one or more elements of data gatheredby motion detector 111, microphone 171, a camera 173, a temperaturesensor 175, and/or a biometric sensor 177 into a user identificationpackage which is forwarded to central monitoring station 160 viawireless transceiver circuitry 128. Based upon the disclosure providedherein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize various circuitsand/or sensors capable of indicating that user detached monitor deviceis moving that may be used in relation to different embodiments.

User detached monitor device 120 additionally includes locationcircuitry 126. Location circuitry 126 may include one or more of, a GPSprocessing circuit capable of fixing a location of user detached monitordevice 120 using GPS data, a WiFi based location circuit 129 capable offixing a location of user detached monitor device 120 using contactinformation with one or more WiFi access points, and/or a cell towertriangulation processing circuit capable of fixing a location of userdetached monitor device 120 using cell tower triangulation data. A localcommunication link 181 controls communication between user detachedmonitor device 120 and user attached monitor device 110. In someembodiments, local communication link 181 supports a Bluetooth™communication protocol and is capable of both receiving information fromuser attached monitor device 110 and transmitting information to userattached monitor device 110. In other embodiments, local communicationlink 181 supports a Wi-Fi communication protocol and is capable of bothreceiving information from user attached monitor device 110 andtransmitting information to user attached monitor device 110. In somecases, local communication link 181 supports communication in only areceive or transmit direction. Based upon the disclosure providedherein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety ofcommunication protocols and information transfer directions that may besupported by local communication link 181 in accordance with differentembodiments.

Additionally, user detached monitor device 120 includes a user responseapplication 199 that controls operation of one or more user impairmentdetection tests administered using user detached monitor device 120and/or user attached monitor device 110. User response application 199may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware-based, or somecombination of the aforementioned. In some cases, user responseapplication 199 provides control for user detached monitor device 120 ofdiagnostic processes described below in one or more of FIGS. 2-3, 5-7and 8-18.

Turning to FIG. 1c , a block diagram 194 of user attached monitor device110 including a local communication link 159 is shown in accordance withsome embodiments. Local communication link 159 controls communicationbetween user attached monitor device 110 and user detached monitordevice 120. In some embodiments, local communication link 159 supports aBluetooth™ communication protocol and is capable of both receivinginformation from user detached monitor device 120 and transmittinginformation to user detached monitor device 120. In other embodiments,local communication link 159 supports a Wi-Fi communication protocol andis capable of both receiving information from user detached monitordevice 120 and transmitting information to user detached monitor device120. In some cases, local communication link 159 supports communicationin only a receive or transmit direction. Based upon the disclosureprovided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize avariety of communication protocols and information transfer directionsthat may be supported by local communication link 159 in accordance withdifferent embodiments.

As shown, user attached monitor device 110 includes a device ID 161 thatmay be maintained in a memory 165, and is thus accessible by acontroller circuit 167. Controller circuit 167 is able to interact witha GPS receiver 162 and memory 165 at times for storing and generatingrecords of successively determined GPS locations. Similarly, controllercircuit 167 is able to interact with a Wi-Fi receiver 188 and memory 165at times for storing and generating records of successively determinedWi-Fi access point identifications and signal strength. In some cases,memory 165 may include non-transient instructions (e.g., software-basedor firmware-based instructions) executable by controller circuit 167 toperform and/or enable various functions associated with user attachedmonitor device 110. As user attached monitor device 110 comes withinrange of one or more Wi-Fi access points (e.g., Wi-Fi access points187), Wi-Fi receiver 188 senses the signal provided by the respectiveWi-Fi access points, and provides an identification of the respectiveWi-Fi access point and a signal strength of the signal received from theWi-Fi access point to Wi-Fi receiver 188. This information is providedto controller circuit 167 which stores the information to memory 165.

Where user attached monitor device 110 is operating in a standard mode,controller circuit 167 causes an update and reporting of the location ofuser attached monitor device 110 via a wide area transceiver 168 andwide area communication network 150. In some embodiments, wide areatransceiver 168 is a cellular telephone transceiver. In some cases, thelocation data is time stamped. In contrast, where user attached monitordevice 110 is within range of a public Wi-Fi access point, reporting thelocation of user attached monitor device 110 may be done via the publicWi-Fi access point in place of the cellular communication link. Inanother case where user attached monitor device 110 is operating in alow battery mode, reporting the location of user attached monitor device110 may be done via user detached monitoring device 120 coupled usinglocal communication link 159.

Which technologies are used to update the location of user attachedmonitor device 110 may be selected either by default, by programmingfrom central monitor station 160, or based upon sensed scenarios withcorresponding pre-determined selections. For example, it may bedetermined whether sufficient battery power as reported by power status196 remains in user attached monitor device 110 to support a particularposition determination technology. Where insufficient power remains, theparticular technology is disabled. In some cases, a maximum cost ofresolving location may be set for user attached monitor device 110. Forexample, resolving Wi-Fi location data may incur a per transaction costto have a third-party service provider resolve the location information.When a maximum number of resolution requests have been issued, the Wi-Fiposition determination technology may be disabled. Further, it may bedetermined whether the likelihood that a particular positiondetermination technology will be capable of providing meaningfullocation information. For example, where user attached monitor device110 is moved indoors, GPS receiver 162 may be disabled to save power.Alternatively, where the tracking device is traveling at relatively highspeeds, the Wi-Fi receiver 188 may be disabled. As yet another example,where cellular phone jamming is occurring, support for cell towertriangulation position determination may be disabled. As yet anotherexample, where GPS jamming is occurring, GPS receiver 162 may bedisabled. As yet another example, where user attached monitor device 110is stationary, the lowest cost (from both a monetary and powerstandpoint) tracking may be enabled while all other technologies aredisabled. Which position determination technologies are used may bebased upon which zone a tracking device is located. Some zones may berich in Wi-Fi access points and in such zones Wi-Fi technology may beused. Otherwise, another technology such as cell tower triangulation orGPS may be used. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one ofordinary skill in the art will recognize other scenarios andcorresponding combinations of technologies may be best.

Controller circuit 167 of user attached monitor device 110 at timesfunctions in conjunction with wide area transceiver 168 to send andreceive data and signals through wide area communication network 150.This link at times is useful for passing information and/or controlsignals between a central monitoring system (not shown) and userattached monitor device 110. The information transmitted may include,but is not limited to, location information, measured alcoholinformation, one or more passive or active impairment tests applied tothe monitored individual, and information about the status of userattached monitor device 110. Based on the disclosure provided herein,one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of informationthat may be transferred via wide area communication network 150.

Various embodiments of user attached monitor device 110 include avariety of sensors capable of determining the status of user attachedmonitor device 110, and of the individual associated therewith. Forexample, a status monitor 166 may include one or more of the followingsubcomponents: power status sensor 196 capable of indicating a powerstatus of user attached monitor device 110, a heart rate monitor 197operable to sense the heart rate of the monitored individual, and/or arespiration rate monitor operable to sense a respiration rate of themonitored individual. The power status may be expressed, for example asa percentage of battery life remaining. Based upon the disclosureprovided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize avariety of forms in which power status may be expressed. The heart ratemay be expressed in beats per minute and the respiration rate may beexpressed in breaths per minute. Based upon the disclosure providedherein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety offorms in which heart rate and/or respiration rate may be expressed.

In addition, user attached monitor device 110 includes a set ofshielding sensors 169 that are capable of determining whether userattached monitor device 110 is being shielded from receiving GPS signalsand/or if GPS jamming is ongoing, a set of device health indicators 154,a tamper sensor 131 capable of determining whether unauthorized accessto user attached monitor device 110 has occurred or whether userattached monitor device 110 has been removed from an associatedindividual being monitored, a motion/proximity sensor 152 capable ofdetermining whether user attached monitor device 110 is moving and/orwhether it is within proximity of an individual associated with userdetached monitor device 120, and/or an alcohol sensor 153. Such analcohol sensor may be any alcohol sensor capable of estimating an amountof alcohol in the individual being monitored. Based upon the disclosureprovided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize avariety of alcohol sensors and corresponding alcohol sensing circuitrythat may be used in relation to different embodiments. In some cases,motion/proximity sensor 152 includes one or more accelerometer sensors.Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in theart will recognize a variety of shielding sensors, a variety of devicehealth transducers and indicators, a variety of tamper sensors, variousdifferent types of motion sensors, different proximity to human sensors,and various human body physical measurement sensors or transducers thatmay be incorporated into user attached monitor device 110 according tovarious different instances and/or embodiments.

Turning to FIG. 1d , a user attached monitor device 1059 is shown withan example attachment element 1060 connected at opposite ends of userattached monitor device 1059 (i.e., a first end 1067 and a second end1068). Attachment element 1060 is operable to securely attach a trackingdevice 1065 (i.e., a combination of user attached monitor device 1059and attachment element 1060) to a limb of an individual in accordancewith some embodiments. In various embodiments, attachment element 1060includes electrically and/or optically conductive material used to makea conductive connection from first end 1067 to second end 1068 throughattachment element 1060 and is used in relation to determining whetheruser attached monitor device 1059 remains attached and/or has beentampered with. While FIG. 1d shows a strap as an example attachmentelement, based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinaryskill in the art will recognize other types of attachment elements thatmay be used in relation to different embodiments. In other embodiments,strap 1060 is long enough to attach around the torso of the monitoredindividual and is sufficiently flexible to allow expansion andcontraction of the chest of the monitored individual as they breath.Such expansion and contraction may be used to sense respiration rate ofthe monitored individual.

Turning to FIG. 2a , a flow diagram 200 shows a method in accordancewith some embodiments for using a combination of a user detached monitordevice 120 and a user attached monitor device 110 to detect impairmentof a monitored individual. Following flow diagram 200, a monitoredindividual response test is selected (block 205). The response test isdesigned to test a biometric or physiological response of an individualto stimuli provided via one or both of user detached monitor device 120and user attached monitor device 110 and/or provided by the monitoredindividual in response to a command received via one or both of userdetached monitor device 120 and user attached monitor device 110. Insome embodiments, the response test determines eye movement response tovisual imaging displayed via visual display and touch screen 116 of userdetached monitor device 120. Camera 173 detects an image of the face ofthe monitored individual, and the image is reduced to eye movementmetrics under the control of user response application 199. Eye movementmay be discerned by sensing movement of the eye greater than a defineddistance from a default eye location based upon the image data receivedfrom camera 173, and calculating a rate at which the determineddeviation is sensed. While the embodiments disclosed herein discuss thetested biometric as eye movement, one of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize other biometrics that may be tested in relation to differentembodiments. Such other biometric tests include, but are not limited to,requiring the user to touch certain parts of visual display and touchscreen 116 in response to changing conditions as discussed more fullybelow in relation to FIGS. 8-9 and/or requiring the user to hold userdetached monitor device 120 away from their body while balancing on onefoot or walking as discussed more fully below in relation to FIGS.10-11.

The selected test setup is communicated to the user attached monitordevice 110 (block 210). This may include, for example, transmitting asetup command for the selected user impairment test to user attachedmonitor device 110 where the commands are executable by controllercircuit 167 to perform the selected test. Where user detached monitordevice 120 is the master in the test process, the test setup may becommunicated to user attached monitor device 110 by user detachedmonitor device 120 under the direction of user response application 199via communication between local communication link 181 of user detachedmonitor device 120 and local communication link 159 of user attachedmonitor device 110. Alternatively, where central monitoring station 160is the master in the diagnostic process, the test setup may becommunicated to user attached monitor device 110 by central monitoringstation via 160 wide area network 150 over either WiFi or cellularcommunication links.

Similarly, the selected test setup is communicated to the user detachedmonitor device 120 (block 235). This may include, for example,transmitting a setup command for the selected user impairment test touser detached monitor device 110 where user response application 199takes over implementation of the test and reporting of results. Wherecentral monitoring station 160 is the master in the diagnostic process,the test setup may be communicated to user attached monitor device 110by central monitoring station via 160 wide area network 150 over eitherWiFi or cellular communication links.

As part of the test, user attached monitor device 110 communicates withuser detached monitor device 120 via a local communication link (e.g., acombination of local communication link 181 and local communication link159) (block 215). It is determined whether sufficient time has passed tocomplete the communication link and successfully communicate with userdetached monitor device 120 (block 220). Where sufficient time haspassed (block 220), it is determined whether user attached monitordevice 110 successfully communicated with user detached monitor device120 (block 225). Where the communication was not possible because, forexample, user detached monitor device 120 is not within range of userattached monitor device 110, a test fail for technical reasons isreported to central monitoring station 160 (block 230).

On the other hand, where successful communication between user attachedmonitor device 110 and user detached monitor device 120 occurred (block225), user detached monitor device 120 under the direction of userresponse application 199 requests a test start by the monitoredindividual (block 240). This request process may include, for example,initiating a visual and/or audio message to the monitored individual viaspeaker 104 and/or visual display and touch screen 116 of user detachedmonitor device 120. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one ofordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of mechanisms foralerting the monitored individual to start a test. The monitoredindividual is prompted to accept the test by, for example, touching astart button on visual display and touch screen 116 of user detachedmonitor device 120. It is determined whether the monitored individualaccepted the test start (block 245) within sufficient time (i.e., somepredetermined time limit to accept, such as, for example, one hour orless) (block 250). Where the monitored individual fails to accept thetest start within the defined time (blocks 245, 250), a test fail fordelay in accepting the test is reported to central monitoring station160 (block 255).

Alternatively, where the monitored individual accepts the test (block245), the test is performed (block 260). The test performance is shownin dashed lines as it is shown in greater detail in relation to FIG. 2b(alternative or additional tests are also described below in relation toFIGS. 8-11).

Turning now to FIG. 2b , a flow diagram 299 shows one implementation ofa monitored individual response test that may be used in relation to oneor more embodiments. Following flow diagram 299, a video is displayed tothe monitored individual via display and touch screen 116 of userdetached monitor device 120 (block 202). The video is designed toinclude movement which engages and causes eye movement.

While the video is being played, image data from camera 173 of userdetached monitor device is captured (block 204). This image datacaptured via camera 173 is compared with a file photograph of themonitored individual (block 206). The file photograph may have beentaken, for example, when the monitored individual was originallyassigned user detached monitor device 120 and/or user attached monitordevice 110. This file photo may be maintained locally on user detachedmonitor device 120 or may be provided to user detached monitor device120 as part of the request to perform the test discussed above inrelation to block 235 of FIG. 2 a.

It is determined whether the file photo matches the captured image(block 208). This may be done using any facial recognition technologyknown in the art. Where the file photo does not match the captured image(block 208), a face match fail is reported to the central monitoringstation 160 (block 212). Otherwise, a continuing stream of image datacaptured by the camera 173 is captured and stored to a memory in userdetached monitor device 120 (block 214)(alternatively, it could becaptured and streamed to the cloud). This continuously captured imagedata is used to detect eye movement patterns of the monitored individualwhich are time correlated with the video being watched by the monitoredindividual (block 216). The captured eye movement data is compared withpreviously determined eye movement data from the same individual (block218). The previously determined eye movement data may have beenobtained, for example, by applying the same test at the time that whenthe monitored individual was originally assigned user detached monitordevice 120 and/or user attached monitor device 110. This previouslydetermined eye movement data may be maintained locally on user detachedmonitor device 120 or may be provided to user detached monitor device120 as part of the request to perform the test discussed above inrelation to block 235.

It is determined whether the recently captured eye movement dataexhibits eye movement that is substantially greater than that exhibitedin the previously determined eye movement data (block 222). In someembodiments, substantially greater is more than ten percent increase ineye movement. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinaryskill in the art will recognize a variety of parameters that may bedefined as substantially greater in accordance with other embodiments.Where the exhibited eye movement is substantially greater (block 222),it indicates the possibility of a stimulant resulting in a “greaterthan” fail being reported to the central monitoring station (block 226).

Alternatively, where the recently captured eye movement data does notexhibit eye movement that is substantially greater than that exhibitedin the previously determined eye movement data (block 222), it isdetermined whether the recently captured eye movement data exhibits eyemovement that is substantially less than that exhibited in thepreviously determined eye movement data (block 224). In someembodiments, substantially less is more than ten percent decrease in eyemovement. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinaryskill in the art will recognize a variety of parameters that may bedefined as substantially less in accordance with other embodiments.Where the eye movement is substantially less (block 224), it indicatesthe possibility of a depressant resulting in a “less than” fail isreported to the central monitoring station (block 232). Otherwise, atest pass is reported to the central monitoring station 160 (block 228).

It is noted that while the embodiment discussed in relation to FIGS.2a-2b provide binary pass/fail outputs that the approaches may bemodified to provide a likelihood of impairment value that is a functionof how much the exhibited eye movement deviates from a baselineimpairment threshold for eye movement. Thus, for example, where theexhibited eye movement is identical to the baseline impairment thresholdfor eye movement, a likelihood of impairment value of zero (0) percentmay be reported. In contrast, where extreme eye movement that eithergreatly exceeds the baseline impairment threshold for eye movement or isgreatly less than the baseline impairment threshold for eye movement, alikelihood of impairment value of near one hundred (100) percent may bereported. For all points between the exhibited eye movement beingidentical to the baseline impairment threshold for eye movement and theexhibited eye movement greatly deviating from the baseline impairmentthreshold for eye movement, a value between zero (0) and one hundred(100) percent is reported depending upon how far the deviation is fromthe baseline impairment threshold for eye movement.

Turning to FIG. 3, a flow diagram 300 shows a method in accordance withsome embodiments for capturing a baseline impairment threshold for eyemovement for a monitored individual using a user detached monitor device120. Following flow diagram 300, a monitored individual baseline testfor eye movement is selected (block 305). This test may be selected bysending a test request from the central monitoring station 160 to theuser detached monitor device 120, or in other embodiments selectedlocally via the user detached monitor device 120.

A video is displayed to the monitored individual via display and touchscreen 116 of user detached monitor device 120 (block 310). The video isdesigned to include movement which engages and causes eye movement.While the video is being played, data from camera 173 of user detachedmonitor device 120 is captured continuously and stored to a memory inuser detached monitor device 120 (block 315). This image data is used todetect eye movement patterns of the monitored individual which are timecorrelated with the video being watched by the monitored individual(block 320). The captured eye movement data is stored as previouslydetermined eye movement data for the individual associated with the userdetached monitor device 120 (block 325). In some cases, the previouslydetermined eye movement data is maintained locally on user detachedmonitor device 120, and in other cases it is transferred to a centralmonitoring station 160. In various cases, the actual image data is notstored, but rather only determined and/or calculated eye movement dataderived from the actual image data.

Turning to FIG. 4, a block diagram of a user impairment detection system400 operated without connection or association with a user attachedmonitor device is shown in accordance with some embodiments. Userimpairment detection system 400 includes a baseline monitored individualeye movement detection system 420, a field monitored individualimpairment detection system 470, and a database server 450.

Baseline monitored individual impairment detection system 420 includes acontroller circuit 422 that may be, for example, a microprocessor or thelike. Controller circuit 422 controls the operation of the various partsof baseline monitored individual eye movement detection system 420.Additionally, baseline monitored individual impairment detection system420 includes sensors 423. Sensors 423 may include one or more sensorscapable of sensing characteristics of an individual including, but notlimited to, heart rate sensors, respiration rate sensors, perspirationsensors, blood pressure sensors, image sensors, motion sensors, and thelike. For this embodiment and those discussed below in relation to FIGS.5-7, sensors 423 include a camera that is capable of capturing imagesof, for example, the face of a individual having a motor vehicle licensewith enough accuracy to discern eye movement over multiple capturedimages. A communication link 411 (wireless or wired) allows forcommunication between baseline monitored individual impairment detectionsystem 420 and database server 450. A memory 424 stores data, a speaker404 can be used to provide audible commands, and a visual display 408can be used to display images to a licensed individual. Baseline eyemovement detection application 428 includes various instructionsexecutable by controller circuit 422 to perform the functions, amongothers, discussed below in relation to FIG. 5.

Field monitored individual impairment detection system 470 includes acontroller circuit 472 that may be, for example a microprocessor or thelike. Controller circuit 472 controls the operation of the various partsof field monitored individual impairment detection system 470. In somecases, field monitored individual impairment detection system 470 is acell phone or other wireless communication device carried by an officerin the field. Additionally, field monitored individual impairmentdetection system 470 includes sensors 473 that are capable of capturingone or more characteristics of the monitored individual including, butnot limited to, heart rate sensors, respiration rate sensors,perspiration sensors, blood pressure sensors, image sensors, motionsensors, and the like. For this embodiment and those discussed below inrelation to FIGS. 5-7, sensors 473 include a camera that is capable ofcapturing images of, for example, the face of a individual having amotor vehicle license with enough accuracy to discern eye movement overmultiple captured images. A communication link 461 (wireless or wired)allows for communication between field monitored individual impairmentdetection system 470 and database server 450. A memory 474 stores data,a speaker 454 can be used to provide audible commands, and a visualdisplay 458 can be used to display images to a licensed individual.Field eye movement detection application 478 includes variousinstructions executable by controller circuit 472 to perform thefunctions, among others, discussed below in relation to FIGS. 6-11.

In some embodiments, database server 450 is communicably coupled to ahistorical database 401. Historical database 401 includes a variety ofdata corresponding to a monitored individual including, but not limitedto, types of addictions and problems that the individual has had in thepast, last incident of substance abuse and the type of substance used,physical locations visited by the monitored individual during a previoustime period, other monitored individuals that the monitored individualhas been in proximity to and the types of addictions and problems thatthe other monitored individuals have had in the past, triggering eventsthat have preceded prior addiction relapses of the monitored individual,and/or recent scenarios that are similar to prior triggering events.Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in theart will recognize other historical data related to a monitoredindividual that may be maintained in historical database in accordancewith various embodiments.

Turning to FIG. 5, a flow diagram 500 shows a method in accordance withsome embodiments for capturing a baseline impairment threshold for eyemovement for a licensed individual at, for example, a location where adriver's license is being issued. Following flow diagram 500, a video isdisplayed to the monitored individual via the visual display 408 ofbaseline monitored individual impairment detection system 420 at, forexample, a driver's license issuing location (block 510). The video isdesigned to include movement which engages and causes eye movement.While the video is being played, data from a camera of sensors 423 ofbaseline monitored individual impairment detection system 420 iscaptured continuously and stored to a memory in baseline monitoredindividual impairment detection system 420 (block 515). This image datais used to detect eye movement patterns of the monitored individualwhich are time correlated with the video being watched by the licensedindividual (block 520). The captured eye movement data is stored aspreviously determined eye movement data for the individual andassociated with the individual's license (block 525). In some cases, thepreviously determined eye movement data is maintained on the databaseserver 450 and is accessible using field monitored individual impairmentdetection system 470. In various cases, the actual image data is notstored, but rather only determined and/or calculated eye movement dataderived from the actual image data.

Turning to FIG. 6, a flow diagram 600 shows a method in accordance withsome embodiments for using field monitored individual impairmentdetection system 470 for detecting monitored individual impairment thatrelies on a previously established baseline impairment threshold for eyemovement specific to the monitored individual. Following flow diagram600, an individual's identification is entered into field monitoredindividual impairment detection system 470 (block 610). This may beentered, for example, by an officer who is in the process of a trafficstop. The previously determined eye movement data for the licensedindividual is downloaded from database server 450 to field monitoredindividual impairment detection system 470 in response to entering theindividual's identification information in block 610 (block 615).

The field monitored individual impairment detection system 470 is put inproximity to the face of the licensed individual and a video isdisplayed to the licensed individual via display 458 of field monitoredindividual impairment detection system 470 (block 625). While the videois being played, data from a camera of sensors 473 of field monitoredindividual impairment detection system 470 is captured and stored as aneye movement video (block 630). This image data is used to detect eyemovement patterns of the monitored individual which are time correlatedwith the video being watched by the monitored individual (block 635).The captured eye movement data is compared with previously determinedeye movement data from the same individual (block 640). The previouslydetermined eye movement data may have been obtained by applying the sametest at the time when the monitored individual was, for example,obtaining a driver's license. Further, this baseline impairmentthreshold may be modified using a learning process similar to thosediscussed below in relation to FIG. 16 and FIG. 18.

It is determined whether eye movement exhibited in the recently capturedeye movement data is substantially greater than that exhibited in thepreviously determined eye movement data (block 642). In someembodiments, substantially greater is more than ten percent increase ineye movement. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinaryskill in the art will recognize a variety of parameters that may bedefined as substantially greater in accordance with other embodiments.Where the eye movement is substantially greater (block 642), itindicates the possibility of a stimulant resulting in a “greater than”fail being reported to the central monitoring station (block 646).

Alternatively, where eye movement exhibited in the recently captured eyemovement data is not substantially greater than that exhibited in thepreviously determined eye movement data (block 642), it is determinedwhether the recently captured eye movement data is substantially lessthan that exhibited in the previously determined eye movement data(block 644). In some embodiments, substantially less is more than tenpercent decrease in eye movement. Based upon the disclosure providedherein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety ofparameters that may be defined as substantially less in accordance withother embodiments. Where the eye movement is substantially less (block644), it indicates the possibility of a depressant resulting in a “lessthan” fail being reported to the central monitoring station (block 652).Otherwise, a test pass is reported (block 648).

It is noted that while the embodiment discussed in relation to FIG. 6provides binary pass/fail outputs that the approaches may be modified toprovide a likelihood of impairment value that is a function of how muchthe exhibited eye movement deviates from a baseline impairment thresholdfor eye movement. Thus, for example, where the exhibited eye movement isidentical to the baseline impairment threshold for eye movement, alikelihood of impairment value of zero (0) percent may be reported. Incontrast, where extreme eye movement that either greatly exceeds thebaseline impairment threshold for eye movement or is greatly less thanthe baseline impairment threshold for eye movement, a likelihood ofimpairment value of near one hundred (100) percent may be reported. Forall points between the exhibited eye movement being identical to thebaseline impairment threshold for eye movement and the exhibited eyemovement greatly deviating from the baseline impairment threshold foreye movement, a value between zero (0) and one hundred (100) percent isreported depending upon how far the deviation is from the baselineimpairment threshold for eye movement.

Turning to FIG. 7, a flow diagram 700 shows a method in accordance withsome embodiments for using field monitored individual impairmentdetection system 470 for detecting monitored individual impairmentwithout using a previously determined baseline impairment threshold foreye movement specific to a particular individual being tested. Followingflow diagram 700, the field monitored individual impairment detectionsystem 470 is put in proximity to the face of the licensed individualand a video is displayed to the licensed individual via display 458 offield monitored individual impairment detection system 470 (block 725).This may be done, for example, by a parent concerned about a child'sstatus. While the video is being played, data from the camera 473 offield monitored individual impairment detection system 470 is capturedand stored as en eye movement video (block 730). This image data is usedto detect eye movement patterns of the monitored individual which aretime correlated with the video being watched by the monitored individual(block 735). The captured eye movement data is compared with a generalbaseline impairment threshold for eye movement developed across a numberof persons not necessarily connected with the monitored individual(block 740).

It is determined whether the recently captured eye movement data issubstantially greater than that exhibited in the general eye movementbaseline data (block 742). In some embodiments, substantially greater ismore than ten percent increase in eye movement. Based upon thedisclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize a variety of parameters that may be defined as substantiallygreater in accordance with other embodiments. Where the eye movement issubstantially greater (block 742), it indicates the possibility of astimulant and a “greater than” fail is reported (block 746).

Alternatively, where the recently captured eye movement data is notsubstantially greater than that exhibited in the previously determinedeye movement data (block 742), it is determined whether the recentlycaptured eye movement data is substantially less than that exhibited inthe previously determined eye movement data (block 744). In someembodiments, substantially less is more than ten percent decrease in eyemovement. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinaryskill in the art will recognize a variety of parameters that may bedefined as substantially less in accordance with other embodiments.Where the eye movement is substantially less (block 744), it indicatesthe possibility of a depressant and a “less than” fail is reported(block 752). Otherwise, a test pass is reported (block 748).

It is noted that while the embodiment discussed in relation to FIG. 7provides binary pass/fail outputs that the approaches may be modified toprovide a likelihood of impairment value that is a function of how muchthe exhibited eye movement deviates from a baseline impairment thresholdfor eye movement. Thus, for example, where the exhibited eye movement isidentical to the baseline impairment threshold for eye movement, alikelihood of impairment value of zero (0) percent may be reported. Incontrast, where extreme eye movement that either greatly exceeds thebaseline impairment threshold for eye movement or is greatly less thanthe baseline impairment threshold for eye movement, a likelihood ofimpairment value of near one hundred (100) percent may be reported. Forall points between the exhibited eye movement being identical to thebaseline impairment threshold for eye movement and the exhibited eyemovement greatly deviating from the baseline impairment threshold foreye movement, a value between zero (0) and one hundred (100) percent isreported depending upon how far the deviation is from the baselineimpairment threshold for eye movement.

One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that a variety of usescenarios in addition to those discussed herein may be supported usingone or more of the embodiments discussed herein. For example, aparent/guardian scenario may be supported allowing a parent/guardian tomonitor a minor child. As another example, an alternative school mayemploy one or more embodiments to monitor expelled or strugglingstudents. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinaryskill in the art will recognize many other use scenarios.

Turning to FIG. 8a , a flow diagram 800 shows a method in accordancewith some embodiments for capturing a monitored individual reaction viauser detached monitor device 120. The method of flow diagram 800 may beused in addition to or separate from the eye movement monitoring methodsdiscussed above in relation to FIGS. 2b and 6-7. Further, the method offlow diagram 800 may be used in relation to a standalone user detachedmonitor device 120 (e.g., a user detached monitor device used by anofficer in a traffic stop or a parent in a home) or in a system where auser detached monitor device 120 is paired with a user attached monitordevice 110.

Following flow diagram 800, a reaction game is displayed via a displayof a user detached monitor device 120 (block 802). This includesexecuting instructions by a controller or processor included in userdetached monitor device 120 to cause the reaction game to load anddisplay such that it is ready to be played by the monitored individual.The reaction game may be any game that engages the monitored individualin an activity that requires the monitored individual to react, and thatmeasures the reaction of the monitored individual.

In one embodiment, the reaction game may require a monitored individualto tilt the user detached monitor device in three dimensions to move anobject to a desired location on the display screen of the user detachedmonitor device. When engaging in such a reaction game, a monitoredindividual 880 holds a user detached monitor device 899 in both handswhile looking at a display 898 on user detached monitor device 899 asshown in FIG. 8b . While held this way, a camera 897 on user detachedmonitor device 899 is positioned to capture an image of the face ofmonitored individual 880.

Turning to FIG. 8c , a top view 889 of user detached monitor device 899shows an example of such a tilt based reaction game. As shown, a maze890 is shown on display 898 with an object 894 at a beginning point 893that is to be moved from one part of maze 890 to an end point 896. Themonitored individual tilts user detached monitor device 899 in threedimensions to cause object 894 to move within maze 890. Turning to FIG.8d , a path 892 is shown along which object 894 is moved from beginningpoint 893 to ending point 896. As an example, an initial move frombeginning point 893 includes tilting a top side 870 of user detachedmonitor device such that it is relatively lower than a bottom side 873causing object 894 to move toward top side 870. This is followed bytilting a right side 871 of user detached monitor device 899 such thatit is relatively lower than a left side 872 causing object 894 to movetoward right side 870. This tilting process is continued to move object894 along path 892.

In another embodiment, the reaction game may require a monitoredindividual to follow a moving cursor on a touch display of the userdetached monitor device using their finger. When engaging in such areaction game, a monitored individual 980 holds a user detached monitordevice 999 in one hand while looking at a display 998 on user detachedmonitor device 999 as shown in FIG. 9a . While held this way, a camera997 on user detached monitor device 999 is positioned to capture animage of the face of monitored individual 980. The user places a finger985 on display 998 where it is poised to follow an object portrayed onthe display.

Turning to FIG. 9b , a top view 989 of user detached monitor device 999shows an example of such a cursor following reaction game. As shown, atarget 982 is shown on display 998 and an object 996 is moved along apath 994 away from target 982. Monitored individual 980 is expected touse finger 985 to contact object 996 and move it back over target 982.Turning to FIG. 9c , a path 993 is shown along which object 996 is movedfrom a beginning point 992 (i.e., a point where monitored individualfirst touches object 996) to an ending point 991 (i.e., a point wheremonitored individual last touches object 996). A time (t) is measuredfrom when object 996 first starts moving away from target 982 untilobject 996 is released by monitored individual 980 at ending point 991.In addition, a distance (d) from target 982 to ending point 991 ismeasured.

While two distinct reaction games that may be used in relation todifferent embodiments have been described herein, one of ordinary skillin the art will recognize a variety of reaction games that may beimplemented in accordance with different embodiments based upon thedisclosure provided herein. Returning to FIG. 8a , while the monitoredindividual is engaged in the reaction game displayed on the userdetached monitor device (block 802), data from the camera 173 of userdetached monitor device 120 or a camera of sensors 473 of fieldmonitored individual impairment detection system 470 is captured (block804). This image data captured via camera 173 is compared with a filephotograph of the monitored individual (block 806). The file photographmay have been taken when the monitored individual was originallyassigned user detached monitor device 120 and/or user attached monitordevice 110, or when the individual was being processed for a driver'slicense. This file photo may be maintained locally on user detachedmonitor device 120 or may be provided to user detached monitor device120 as part of the request to perform the reaction test (similar to thatdiscussed above in relation to block 235 or block 305).

It is determined whether the file photo matches the captured image(block 808). This may be done using any facial recognition technologyknown in the art. Where the file photo does not match the captured image(block 808), a face match fail is reported (block 812). This face matchfailure may be reported to a central monitoring station 160 where theuser detached monitor device 120 is communicably coupled to such acentral monitoring station, or may be displayed locally where the userdetached monitor device 120 is a standalone device. In some cases, thereprior knowledge of the individual being tested is not available, theprocesses of blocks 804-812 can be skipped. As an example, where userdetached monitor device 120 is a traffic patrol officer's device, thepatrol officer may user the driver's license of the individual to verifythe person taking the test, and camera 173 may capture an image of theindividual taking the test that may be stored along with the results ofthe reaction test. This image stored with the test results could beused, for example, in a later court proceeding to verify the identity ofthe individual that took the test.

Where either the captured image matches the available image of themonitored individual (block 808) or the processes of blocks 804-812 areskipped, the reaction of the monitored individual while they play thereaction game is monitored and measured (block 814). Using the tilt gameof FIGS. 8b-8d as an example, the time that it takes the monitoredindividual to move object 894 from beginning point 893 to ending point896 is measured. Alternatively or in addition, the number of over tiltscausing deviation from path 892 are counted. Based upon the disclosureprovided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize avariety of measurements that may be made while the monitored individualplays the tilt game which may be used to indicate whether the individualis experiencing some level of impairment. Using the cursor follow gameof FIGS. 9a-9c as an example, the time that it takes the monitoredindividual to first touch object 996 may be measured, the time that ittakes the monitored individual to move object 996 to ending point 991may be measured, and/or the distance from ending point 991 to target 982may be measured. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one ofordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of measurements thatmay be made while the monitored individual plays the cursor follow gamewhich may be used to indicate whether the individual is experiencingsome level of impairment.

The measurements of the monitored individual's play of the reaction gameare compared with either a predefined baseline impairment threshold forreaction time specific to the monitored individual or to a baselineimpairment threshold for reaction time baseline generic to multipleusers (block 816). For example, where the monitored individual is onparole, part of the terms of their release may be that they play thereaction games many times in a controlled situation where it is knownthat they are not impaired. As another example, the monitored individualmay be applying for a driver's license and as part of that process theyare required to play the reaction games many times in a controlledsituation where it is known that they are not impaired. Alternatively,results that would be expected for a broad range of users may beestablished and used for comparison purposes. The results may be used toestablish an expected baseline of measurements to which later testresults may be compared. These results may be maintained on the userdetached device or may be downloaded on demand to the user detacheddevice. Further, these baseline impairment thresholds may be modifiedusing a learning process similar to those discussed below in relation toFIG. 16 and FIG. 18.

Where the comparison of the results from the monitored individual's playof the reaction game are similar to the baseline (block 824), the testindicates that the monitored individual is likely unimpaired and thusthe individual passes (block 828). This pass result may be transmittedto central monitoring station 160 or may simply be recorded anddisplayed locally via the user detached monitor device. Alternatively,where the comparison of the results from the monitored individual's playof the reaction game substantially deviate from the baseline (block824), the test indicates that the monitored individual is likelyimpaired and thus the individual fails (block 832). In some embodiments,a substantial deviation is more than ten percent greater or less thanthe baseline measurement. In various embodiments, a substantialdeviation is more than twenty percent greater or less than the baselinemeasurement. In some embodiments, a substantial deviation is more thanthirty percent greater or less than the baseline measurement. In variousembodiments, a substantial deviation is more than fifty percent greateror less than the baseline measurement. The fail result may betransmitted to central monitoring station 160 or may simply be recordedand displayed locally via the user detached monitor device.

It is noted that while the embodiment discussed in relation to FIG. 8aprovides binary pass/fail outputs that the approaches may be modified toprovide a likelihood of impairment value that is a function of how muchthe sensed reaction time deviates from a baseline impairment thresholdfor reaction time. Thus, for example, where the exhibited reaction timeis identical to the baseline impairment threshold for reaction time, alikelihood of impairment value of zero (0) percent may be reported. Incontrast, where extreme delay in reaction time greatly exceeds thebaseline impairment threshold for reaction time, a likelihood ofimpairment value of near one hundred (100) percent may be reported. Forall points between the reaction time being similar or less than thebaseline impairment threshold for reaction time eye movement and theexhibited reaction time greatly deviating from the baseline impairmentthreshold for reaction time, a value between zero (0) and one hundred(100) percent is reported depending upon how far the deviation is fromthe baseline impairment threshold for reaction time.

Turning to FIG. 10a , a flow diagram 1000 shows a method in accordancewith some embodiments for capturing an ability of a monitored individualto balance via a user detached monitor device while the monitoredindividual is standing on one leg. The method of flow diagram 1000 maybe used in addition to or separate from the eye movement monitoringmethods discussed above in relation to FIGS. 2b and 6-7. Further, themethod of flow diagram 1000 may be used in relation to a standalone userdetached monitor device 120 (e.g., a user detached monitor device usedby an officer in a traffic stop) or in a system where a user detachedmonitor device 120 is paired with a user attached monitor device 110.

Following flow diagram 1000, a request for the monitored individual tostand on one foot is displayed via a display of user detached monitordevice 120 (block 1002). The request additionally requires that themonitored individual hold the user detached monitor device away fromtheir body and hold the user detached monitor device such that thecamera on the user detached monitor device can take an image of themonitored individual showing both the identity of the monitoredindividual, the location of the user detached monitor device relative tothe monitored individual, and that the individual is standing on asingle foot. Turning to FIG. 10b , a monitored individual 1080 is shownholding a user detached monitor device 1099 in their hands such that itis away from the body of monitored individual 1080. User detachedmonitor device 1099 is tilted such that a camera 1097 on user detachedmonitor device 1099 can see (either in a single image or across a seriesof images) the face of user detached monitor device 1099 and that oneleg 1083 of monitored individual 1080 is lifted to hold a foot off theground, and the other leg 1082 is supported by a foot on the ground.Accelerometers included as part of user attached monitor device 1099determine whether the device is tipping in three dimensions (shown as anx, a y, and a z axis).

Returning to FIG. 10a , data is accessed from the camera on the userdetached monitor device (block 1004). This data is used to ascertain theidentity of the monitored individual, to assure that the user detachedmonitor device is held away from the body, and that the monitoredindividual is standing on a single foot (block 1006). Where it isdetermined that the conditions of the test have not yet been met (block1006), it is determined whether the monitored individual has been givenenough time to comply with the conditions of the test (block 1008).Where enough time has passed (block 1008), a compliance fail isindicated (block 1010). This compliance fail may be transmitted to acentral monitoring station or it may simply be recorded and displayed tothe monitored individual via a display of the user detached monitordevice.

Alternatively, where the test conditions are met (block 1006), theaccelerometers included in the user detached monitor device aremonitored to determine how much the user detached monitor device istilting and/or moving while the monitored individual stands on one foot(block 1012). This monitoring continues for a defined period of time.The data recorded from the accelerometers while the monitored individualstands on a single foot is compared with either a predefined baselineimpairment threshold for balance specific to the monitored individual orto a standard baseline impairment threshold for balance that is genericto multiple users (block 1014). For example, where the monitoredindividual is on parole, part of the terms of their release may be thatthey stand on a single foot while similar accelerometer data is recordedunder similar conditions and in a controlled situation where it is knownthat they are not impaired. As another example, the monitored individualmay be applying for a driver's license and as part of that process theyare required to stand on a single foot while similar accelerometer datais recorded under similar conditions and in a controlled situation whereit is known that they are not impaired. The results may be used toestablish an expected baseline impairment threshold for balance to whichlater test results may be compared. These results may be maintained onthe user detached device or may be downloaded on demand to the userdetached device. Further, this baseline impairment threshold may bemodified using a learning process similar to those discussed below inrelation to FIG. 16 and FIG. 18.

Where the comparison of the results from the monitored individual'sstability while standing on a single foot are similar to the baselineimpairment threshold for balance (block 1016), the test indicates thatthe monitored individual is likely unimpaired and thus the individualpasses (block 1020). This pass result may be transmitted to centralmonitoring station 160 or may simply be recorded and displayed locallyvia the user detached monitor device. Alternatively, where thecomparison of the results from testing the monitored individual indicatea stability that is substantially lower than the baseline impairmentthreshold for balance (block 1016), the test indicates that themonitored individual is likely impaired and thus the individual fails(block 1018). In some embodiments, substantially lower stability isindicated when the accelerometers indicate more than ten percentincrease in movement when compared with the baseline measurement. Invarious embodiments, substantially lower stability is indicated when theaccelerometers indicate more than twenty percent increase in movementwhen compared with the baseline measurement. In some embodiments,substantially lower stability is indicated when the accelerometersindicate more than thirty percent increase in movement when comparedwith the baseline measurement. In various embodiments, substantiallylower stability is indicated when the accelerometers indicate more thanfifty percent increase in movement when compared with the baselinemeasurement. The fail result may be transmitted to central monitoringstation 160 or may simply be recorded and displayed locally via the userdetached monitor device.

It is noted that while the embodiment discussed in relation to FIG. 10aprovides binary pass/fail outputs that the approaches may be modified toprovide a likelihood of impairment value that is a function of how muchthe exhibited balance deviates from a baseline impairment threshold forbalance. Thus, for example, where the exhibited balance is identical toor better than the baseline impairment threshold for balance, alikelihood of impairment value of zero (0) percent may be reported. Incontrast, where extreme balance issues are sensed that greatly exceedthe baseline impairment threshold for balance, a likelihood ofimpairment value of near one hundred (100) percent may be reported. Forall points between the exhibited balance being similar or better thanthe baseline impairment threshold for balance and the exhibited balancegreatly deviating from the baseline impairment threshold for balance, avalue between zero (0) and one hundred (100) percent is reporteddepending upon how far the deviation is from the baseline impairmentthreshold for balance.

Turning to FIG. 11a , a flow diagram 1100 shows a method in accordancewith some embodiments for capturing an ability of a monitored individualto balance via a user detached monitor device while the monitoredindividual is walking. The method of flow diagram 1100 may be used inaddition to or separate from the eye movement monitoring methodsdiscussed above in relation to FIGS. 2b and 6-7. Further, the method offlow diagram 1100 may be used in relation to a standalone user detachedmonitor device 120 (e.g., a user detached monitor device used by anofficer in a traffic stop) or in a system where a user detached monitordevice 120 is paired with a user attached monitor device 110.

Following flow diagram 1100, a request for the monitored individual tostart walking via a display of user detached monitor device 120 (block1102). The request additionally requires that the monitored individualhold the user detached monitor device away from their body and hold theuser detached monitor device such that the camera on the user detachedmonitor device can take an image of the monitored individual showingboth the identity of the monitored individual, the location of the userdetached monitor device relative to the monitored individual, and thatthe individual is walking. Turning to FIG. 11b , a monitored individual1180 is shown holding a user detached monitor device 1199 in their handssuch that it is away from the body of monitored individual 1180 whilethey are walking in a direction 1181. User detached monitor device 1199is tilted such that a camera 1197 on user detached monitor device 1199can see (either in a single image or across a series of images) the faceof user 1180 and that one leg 1183 is moving relative to another leg1182 in a pattern indicative of walking. Accelerometers included as partof user attached monitor device 1199 determine whether the device istipping in three dimensions (shown as an x, a y, and a z axis).

Returning to FIG. 11a , data is accessed from the camera on the userdetached monitor device (block 1104). This data is used to ascertain theidentity of the monitored individual, to assure that the user detachedmonitor device is held away from the body, and that the monitoredindividual is walking (block 1106). Where it is determined that theconditions of the test have not yet been met (block 1106), it isdetermined whether the monitored individual has been given enough timeto comply with the conditions of the test (block 1108). Where enoughtime has passed (block 1108), a compliance fail is indicated (block1110). This compliance fail may be transmitted to a central monitoringstation or it may simply be recorded and displayed to the monitoredindividual via a display of the user detached monitor device.

Alternatively, where the test conditions are met (block 1106), the eyemovement and facial expressions of the monitored individual are capturedusing the camera in the user detached monitor device (block 1112). Theseimages may be stored local in the user detached monitor device and/ortransmitted to a central monitoring station. This video data may beused, for example, in a later legal proceeding where a monitoredindividual is attempting to refute the evidence gathered via the userdetached monitor device.

The accelerometers included in the user detached monitor device aremonitored to determine how much the user detached monitor device istilting and/or moving while the monitored individual is walking (block1114). In sum, the gait of the monitored individual is monitored and oneor more characteristics of the gait is quantified. This monitoringcontinues for a defined period of time or counted number of steps (stepsmay be automatically identified using the data from the accelerometersin the same way a commercially available pedometer identifies steps).The data recorded from the accelerometers while the monitored individualwalks is compared with either a predefined baseline impairment thresholdfor gait that is specific to the monitored individual or to a baselineimpairment threshold for gait that is generic to multiple users (block1116). For example, where the monitored individual is on parole, part ofthe terms of their release may be that they walk while similaraccelerometer data is recorded under similar conditions and in acontrolled situation where it is known that they are not impaired. Asanother example, the monitored individual may be applying for a driver'slicense and as part of that process they are required to walk whilesimilar accelerometer data is recorded under similar conditions and in acontrolled situation where it is known that they are not impaired. Theresults may be used to establish an expected baseline of measurements towhich later test results may be compared. These results may bemaintained on the user detached device or may be downloaded on demand tothe user detached device. Further, this baseline impairment thresholdmay be modified using a learning process similar to those discussedbelow in relation to FIG. 16 and FIG. 18.

Where the comparison of the results from the monitored individual'sstability while walking are similar to the baseline impairment thresholdfor gait (block 1118), the test indicates that the monitored individualis likely unimpaired and thus the individual passes (block 1120). Thispass result may be transmitted to central monitoring station 160 or maysimply be recorded and displayed locally via the user detached monitordevice. Alternatively, where the comparison of the results from testingthe monitored individual indicate a stability that is substantiallydifferent than the baseline impairment threshold for gait (block 1118),the test indicates that the monitored individual is likely impaired andthus the individual fails (block 1122). In some embodiments,substantially different stability is indicated when the accelerometersindicate more than ten percent increase or decrease in movement whencompared with the baseline impairment threshold for gait. In variousembodiments, substantially different stability is indicated when theaccelerometers indicate more than twenty percent increase or decrease inmovement when compared with the baseline measurement. In someembodiments, a substantially different stability is indicated when theaccelerometers indicate more than thirty percent increase or decrease inmovement when compared with the baseline measurement. In variousembodiments, substantially different stability is indicated when theaccelerometers indicate more than fifty percent increase or decrease inmovement when compared with the baseline measurement. The fail resultmay be transmitted to central monitoring station 160 or may simply berecorded and displayed locally via the user detached monitor device.

It is noted that while the embodiment discussed in relation to FIG. 11aprovides binary pass/fail outputs that the approaches may be modified toprovide a likelihood of impairment value that is a function of how muchthe exhibited gait deviates from a baseline impairment threshold forgait. Thus, for example, where the exhibited balance is identical to orbetter than the baseline impairment threshold for gait, a likelihood ofimpairment value of zero (0) percent may be reported. In contrast, whereextreme balance issues are sensed that greatly exceed the baselineimpairment threshold for gait, a likelihood of impairment value of nearone hundred (100) percent may be reported. For all points between theexhibited balance being similar or better than the baseline impairmentthreshold for gait and the exhibited balance greatly deviating from thebaseline impairment threshold for gait, a value between zero (0) and onehundred (100) percent is reported depending upon how far the deviationis from the baseline impairment threshold for gait.

Turning to FIG. 12, a flow diagram 1200 shows a method for predictingimpairment based at least in part on two or more impairment tests inaccordance with some embodiments. Following flow diagram 1200, it isdetermined whether impairment is indicated based upon an eye movementtest (block 1205). The eye movement test may be performed, for example,similar to that discussed above in relation to any of FIG. 2b , FIG. 6,or FIG. 7. Where an eye movement test indicates impairment (block 1205),a likelihood that the monitored individual is impaired is increased(block 1210). In some embodiments, a monitored individual is onlyconsidered to be impaired where two or more tests indicate impairment.Thus, in such an embodiment, increasing the likelihood of impairmentincludes raising the likelihood of impairment to sixty (60) percent ofwhat would be required to consider the monitored individual likelyimpaired and to alert a monitoring officer. In other embodiments, amonitored individual is considered impaired where only a single testdeviates significantly from a baseline impairment threshold for theparticular test, or where two or more tests deviate at least slightlyfrom the baseline impairment threshold for the respective tests. Thus,where a single test deviates significantly, increasing the likelihood ofimpairment includes raising the likelihood of impairment to one hundred,thirty (130) percent of what would be required to consider the monitoredindividual likely impaired and to alert a monitoring officer.Alternatively, where only a slight deviation is indicated, increasingthe likelihood of impairment includes raising the likelihood ofimpairment to sixty (60) percent of what would be required to considerthe monitored individual likely impaired and to alert a monitoringofficer. In some embodiments, a significant deviation is a deviation offifteen (15) percent or more, and a slight deviation is a deviation ofless than fifteen (15) percent. Based upon the disclosure providedherein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety ofdeviations that may be considered slight or significant and/or a numberof increases in the likelihood of impairment that may be applied inaccordance with different embodiments.

Where an eye movement test does not indicate impairment (block 1205),the likelihood that the monitored individual is impaired is reducedslightly (block 1212). In some embodiments, this slight decrease may beten (10) percent of what would be required to consider the monitoredindividual likely impaired and to alert a monitoring officer. Based uponthe disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize a variety of decreases in the likelihood of impairment thatmay be applied in accordance with different embodiments. Eye movementbased impairment is not indicated where the measured eye movement iswithin the baseline impairment threshold for the particular test.

It is determined whether impairment is indicated based upon a balancetest (block 1215). The balance test may be performed, for example,similar to that discussed above in relation to any of FIG. 10a or FIG.11a . Where a balance test indicates impairment (block 1215), alikelihood that the monitored individual is impaired is increased (block1220). Again, in some embodiments, a monitored individual is onlyconsidered to be impaired where two or more tests indicate impairment.Thus, in such an embodiment, increasing the likelihood of impairmentincludes raising the likelihood of impairment by sixty (60) percent ofwhat would be required to consider the monitored individual likelyimpaired and to alert a monitoring officer. In other embodiments, amonitored individual is considered impaired where only a single testdeviates significantly from a baseline impairment threshold for theparticular test, or where two or more tests deviate at least slightlyfrom the baseline impairment threshold for the respective tests. Thus,where a single test deviates significantly, increasing the likelihood ofimpairment includes raising the likelihood of impairment to one hundred,thirty (130) percent of what would be required to consider the monitoredindividual likely impaired and to alert a monitoring officer.Alternatively, where only a slight deviation is indicated, increasingthe likelihood of impairment includes raising the likelihood ofimpairment by sixty (60) percent of what would be required to considerthe monitored individual likely impaired and to alert a monitoringofficer. In some embodiments, a significant deviation is a deviation offifteen (15) percent or more, and a slight deviation is a deviation ofless than fifteen (15) percent. Based upon the disclosure providedherein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety ofdeviations that may be considered slight or significant and/or a numberof increases in the likelihood of impairment that may be applied inaccordance with different embodiments.

Where a balance test does not indicate impairment (block 1215), thelikelihood that the monitored individual is impaired is reduced slightly(block 1222). In some embodiments, this slight decrease may be ten (10)percent of what would be required to consider the monitored individuallikely impaired and to alert a monitoring officer. Based upon thedisclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize a variety of decreases in the likelihood of impairment thatmay be applied in accordance with different embodiments. Balance basedimpairment is not indicated where the measured balance is within thebaseline impairment threshold for the particular test.

It is determined whether impairment is indicated based upon a reactiontest (block 1225). The reaction test may be performed, for example,similar to that discussed above in relation to any of FIGS. 8-9. Where areaction test indicates impairment (block 1225), a likelihood that themonitored individual is impaired is increased (block 1230). Again, insome embodiments, a monitored individual is only considered to beimpaired where two or more tests indicate impairment. Thus, in such anembodiment, increasing the likelihood of impairment includes raising thelikelihood of impairment by sixty (60) percent of what would be requiredto consider the monitored individual likely impaired and to alert amonitoring officer. In other embodiments, a monitored individual isconsidered impaired where only a single test deviates significantly froma baseline impairment threshold for the particular test, or where two ormore tests deviate at least slightly from the baseline impairmentthreshold for the respective tests. Thus, where a single test deviatessignificantly, increasing the likelihood of impairment includes raisingthe likelihood of impairment to one hundred, thirty (130) percent ofwhat would be required to consider the monitored individual likelyimpaired and to alert a monitoring officer. Alternatively, where only aslight deviation is indicated, increasing the likelihood of impairmentincludes raising the likelihood of impairment by sixty (60) percent ofwhat would be required to consider the monitored individual likelyimpaired and to alert a monitoring officer. In some embodiments, asignificant deviation is a deviation of fifteen (15) percent or more,and a slight deviation is a deviation of less than fifteen (15) percent.Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in theart will recognize a variety of deviations that may be considered slightor significant and/or a number of increases in the likelihood ofimpairment that may be applied in accordance with different embodiments.

Where a reaction test does not indicate impairment (block 1225), thelikelihood that the monitored individual is impaired is reduced slightly(block 1232). In some embodiments, this slight decrease may be ten (10)percent of what would be required to consider the monitored individuallikely impaired and to alert a monitoring officer. Based upon thedisclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize a variety of decreases in the likelihood of impairment thatmay be applied in accordance with different embodiments. Reaction basedimpairment is not indicated where the measured reaction is within thebaseline impairment threshold for the particular test.

The calculated likelihood of impairment for the monitored individual isreported to a monitoring officer (block 1250). This reporting may bedone, for example, by sending a text message or a voice message to themonitoring officer. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one ofordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of methods that maybe used to report the finding of a likelihood of impairment to themonitoring officer.

Turning to FIG. 13, a flow diagram 1300 shows a method for predictingimpairment based at least in part on historical data associated with amonitored individual in accordance with some embodiments. Following flowdiagram 1300, it is determined whether an active and/or passiveimpairment test was completed such that results (e.g., a likelihood thatthe monitored individual is impaired) are available (block 1305). Suchpassive impairment tests may include, but are limited to, monitoring amonitored individual's gait while they are walking without commandingthe individual to walk so that the monitoring can take place. a changein respiration levels outside of an increase expected from a detectedamount of movement of the monitored individual, a change in perspirationlevels outside of an increase expected from a detected amount ofmovement of the monitored individual, a change in heart rate outside ofan increase expected from a detected amount of movement of the monitoredindividual, red eye detection done using a camera on a user detachedmonitor device without commanding the monitored individual to use thecamera, and/or a change in activity level of the monitored individual.Active impairment tests may include, but is not limited to, balancemonitoring during a period that the monitored individual is engaged in acommanded activity, reaction monitoring during a period that themonitored individual is engaged in a commanded activity, and/or eyemovement monitoring. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one ofordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of passive and activeimpairment tests that may be applied either separately or in combinationto discern likelihood of impairment of the monitored individual.

Where impairment test results are available (block 1305), it isdetermined whether historical data is available for the individual(block 1310). Such historical data includes, but is not limited to,types of addictions and problems that the individual has had in thepast, last incident of substance abuse and the type of substance used,physical locations visited by the monitored individual during a previoustime period, other monitored individuals that the monitored individualhas been in proximity to and the types of addictions and problems thatthe other monitored individuals have had in the past, triggering eventsthat have preceded prior addiction relapses of the monitored individual,and/or recent scenarios that are similar to prior triggering events.Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in theart will recognize other historical data related to a monitoredindividual that may be maintained in historical database in accordancewith various embodiments.

Where historical data is available (block 1310), it is determined fromthe historical data whether the monitored individual has been in closeproximity to a known source of a substance (block 1315). This may bediscerned, for example, based upon tracking information available on thesource and/or based upon locations known to be frequented by a source.The source may be, for example, a known drug distributor.

Where the monitored individual has been in close proximity to a sourceof a substance within a defined period (e.g., one week) (block 1315), alikelihood that the monitored individual is impaired is increased (block1320). In some embodiments, this increase in likelihood of impairment isminor compared with an increase done because of failure of one or moreactive or passive impairment tests. In some embodiments, increasing thelikelihood of impairment includes raising the likelihood of impairmentby ten (10) percent of what would be required to consider the monitoredindividual likely impaired and to alert a monitoring officer. Based uponthe disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize a variety of increases in the likelihood of impairment thatmay be applied in accordance with different embodiments. Alternatively,where the monitored individual has not been in close proximity to asource of a substance within a defined period (e.g., one week) (block1315), a likelihood that the monitored individual is impaired isdecreased (block 1322). In some embodiments, the decrease may be one (1)percent of what would be required to consider the monitored individuallikely impaired and to alert a monitoring officer.

It is determined whether the monitored individual has a known substanceaddiction (block 1325). Where the monitored individual has a knownsubstance addiction (block 1325), a likelihood that the monitoredindividual is impaired is increased (block 1330). In some embodiments,this increase in likelihood of impairment is minor compared with anincrease done because of failure of one or more active or passiveimpairment tests. In some embodiments, increasing the likelihood ofimpairment includes raising the likelihood of impairment by twenty-five(25) percent of what would be required to consider the monitoredindividual likely impaired and to alert a monitoring officer. Based uponthe disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize a variety of increases in the likelihood of impairment thatmay be applied in accordance with different embodiments. Alternatively,where the monitored individual is not known to have a substanceaddiction (block 1325), a likelihood that the monitored individual isimpaired is decreased (block 1332). In some embodiments, the decreasemay be ten (10) percent of what would be required to consider themonitored individual likely impaired and to alert a monitoring officer.

It is determined whether the monitored individual has recently traveledin an area known for having substances available (block 1335). Where themonitored individual has recently traveled in an area known for havingsubstances available (block 1335), a likelihood that the monitoredindividual is impaired is increased (block 1340). In some embodiments,this increase in likelihood of impairment is minor compared with anincrease done because of failure of one or more active or passiveimpairment tests. In some embodiments, increasing the likelihood ofimpairment includes raising the likelihood of impairment by ten (10)percent of what would be required to consider the monitored individuallikely impaired and to alert a monitoring officer. Based upon thedisclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize a variety of increases in the likelihood of impairment thatmay be applied in accordance with different embodiments. Alternatively,where the monitored individual has not recently traveled in an areaknown for having substances available (block 1335), a likelihood thatthe monitored individual is impaired is decreased (block 1342). In someembodiments, the decrease may be one (1) percent of what would berequired to consider the monitored individual likely impaired and toalert a monitoring officer.

The calculated likelihood of impairment for the monitored individual isreported to a monitoring officer (block 1350). This reporting may bedone, for example, by sending a text message or a voice message to themonitoring officer. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one ofordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of methods that maybe used to report the finding of a likelihood of impairment to themonitoring officer.

Turning to FIG. 14, a block diagram of a multi-tiered impairmentdetection system 1800 is shown in accordance with various embodiments.Multi-tiered impairment detection system 1800 is capable of passiveimpairment monitoring of an individual to determine a likelihood thatthe monitored individual is impaired. As used herein, the phrase“passive impairment monitoring” is used in its broadest sense to referto any monitoring that is done in the normal course of a monitoredindividual's activities such that the monitored individual is notcommanded to engage in a particular activity to facilitate themonitoring. Thus, as one of many examples, passive impairment monitoringmay include monitoring a monitored individual's gait while they arewalking without commanding the individual to walk so that the monitoringcan take place. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one ofordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of passive impairmentmonitoring that may be used in accordance with different embodimentsincluding, but not limited to, a change in respiration levels outside ofan increase expected from a detected amount of movement of the monitoredindividual, a change in perspiration levels outside of an increaseexpected from a detected amount of movement of the monitored individual,a change in heart rate outside of an increase expected from a detectedamount of movement of the monitored individual, red eye detection, achange in activity level of the monitored individual, and/or thelocation of a monitored individual at or near a location where alcoholor other impairing substances are known to be consumed. In some cases,the passive impairment testing is done in accordance with the methodsdiscussed below in relation to FIGS. 14-15. Based upon the disclosureprovided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize avariety of passive impairment tests that may be applied eitherseparately or in combination to discern likelihood of impairment of themonitored individual.

Multi-tiered impairment detection system 1800 is capable of activeimpairment monitoring that may be triggered, in some embodiments, basedat least in part on results from passive impairment monitoring of themonitored individual. In contrast to passive impairment monitoring, thephrase “active impairment monitoring” is used in its broadest sense torefer to any monitoring where the monitored individual is commanded toperform a particular activity and the monitoring occurs in relation tothe particular activity. Such active impairment monitoring may include,but is not limited to, monitoring stability of monitored individual asthe monitored individual is walking or otherwise moving as directed inthe test, monitoring individual's reaction time as directed in a test,and/or monitoring individual's eye movement as the individual watches adefined video program. Other active impairment tests may be used eitherseparately or in combination with one or more of the aforementionedtests and include, but are not limited to, changes in heart rate,changes in body temperature, changes in breathing, and/or perspiration.In some cases, the active impairment testing may be performed similar tothat discussed above in relation to FIG. 3. In various cases, the activeimpairment testing may be performed similar to that discussed above inrelation to FIGS. 8a-8d and/or FIGS. 8 and 9 a-9 c. In some cases, theactive impairment testing may be performed similar to that discussedabove in relation to FIGS. 10a-10b . In one or more cases, the activeimpairment testing may be performed similar to that discussed above inrelation to FIGS. 11a-11b . In various cases, the active impairmenttesting may be performed similar to that discussed above in relation toFIG. 12. In various cases, the active impairment testing may beaugmented to include historical based data similar to that discussedabove in relation to FIG. 13. Based on the disclosure provided herein,one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of activeimpairment tests that may be applied either separately or incombination.

Multi-tiered impairment detection system 1800 may be implemented as partof a standalone testing system similar to that discussed above inrelation to FIG. 4 in which case the modules may be implemented insoftware or firmware executing on controller circuit 472, and/or as partof a hybrid testing system including a user detached monitor deviceand/or a user attached monitor device similar to that discussed above inrelation to FIGS. 1a-1d . In such a case, the modules may be implementedin software or firmware executing on one or both of controller circuit122. and/or controller circuit 167.

A passive impairment detection module 1805 receives sensed data 1897from one or more sensors included as part of individual monitoringsensors 1895 and historical data 1892 received from a historicaldatabase 1890. Historical database 1890 includes a variety of datacorresponding to a monitored individual including, but not limited to,types of addictions and problems that the individual has had in thepast, last incident of substance abuse and the type of substance used,physical locations visited by the monitored individual during a previoustime period, other monitored individuals that the monitored individualhas been in proximity to and the types of addictions and problems thatthe other monitored individuals have had in the past, triggering eventsthat have preceded prior addiction relapses of the monitored individual,and/or recent scenarios that are similar to prior triggering events.Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in theart will recognize other historical data related to a monitoredindividual that may be maintained in historical database in accordancewith various embodiments. Individual monitoring sensors 1895 may includea variety of sensors designed to detect different characteristics of amonitored individual. Such sensors may include, but are not limited to,a camera, a motion detector (including, for example, one or moreaccelerometers), a respiration sensor, a blood pressure sensor, a heartrate sensor, a microphone, a temperature sensor, and/or an alcoholdetection sensor. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one ofordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of other sensorsand/or combinations of sensors that may be incorporated in individualmonitoring sensors 1895 in accordance with different embodiments.

In addition, passive impairment detection module 1805 receives one ormore baseline threshold values 1817 from a passive impairment thresholdlearning module 1815. Baseline threshold values 1817 are used to comparewith impairment information created by passive impairment detectionmodule 1805 based upon sensed data 1897. Thus, for example, where thepassive impairment monitoring is limited to the gait of the monitoredindividual, passive impairment detection module 1805 receivesacceleration data as sensed data 1897 from one or more accelerometersincluded in individual monitoring sensors 1895. Passive impairmentdetection module 1805 uses this acceleration data to, for example,calculate lateral acceleration per step for the monitored individual.This calculated lateral acceleration per step is compared with abaseline gait threshold value received as baseline threshold values1817. In some cases, the baseline gait threshold value includes a rangeof lateral acceleration per step values between an upper value and lowervalue between which the sensed lateral acceleration per step calculatedby passive impairment detection module 1805 based upon sensed data 1897is compared.

The comparison of the calculated value with the baseline gait thresholdvalue performed by passive impairment detection module 1805 determineswhether the sensed data indicates that the monitored individual iswithin a range that indicates non-impairment or is outside of the rangeindicating that the monitored individual is potentially impaired. Wherethe monitored individual is outside of the range of the baselinethreshold values 1817, a likelihood of impairment value 1808 is providedto an active impairment detection module 1810 for further testing andmonitoring. In some embodiments, passive impairment detection module1805 operates similar to that discussed below in relation to FIG. 15.

The difference between baseline threshold values 1817 and the sensed andcalculated characteristic of the monitored individual calculated bypassive impairment detection module 1805 based upon sensed data 1897(e.g., lateral acceleration per step) for the monitored individual isprovided as a passive difference value 1807 to passive impairmentthreshold learning module 1815. Passive impairment threshold learningmodule 1815 also receives an active impairment value 1812 from an activeimpairment detection module 1810 and an initial passive threshold 1802.In some embodiments, initial passive threshold 1802 may be a generalizedbaseline threshold applied to a number of individuals for the particularcharacteristic to which it is applied. In other cases, the initialpassive threshold 1802 may be measured, for example, at the time that auser attached monitor device is attached to the monitored individual. Insuch a measurement case, the measured value may then be defined with alower limit of eighty-five (85) percent of the measured value and anupper limit of one hundred, ten (110) percent of the measured value.Using the example above where the initial baseline gait threshold isexpressed as lateral acceleration per step, the monitored individualcould be asked to walk a straight line and the average lateralacceleration per step is measured/calculated. The upper and lower limitsare then calculated and stored for later use in determining impairment.

In some embodiments, passive impairment threshold learning module 1815merely passes initial passive threshold 1802 through as baselinethreshold values 1817. In other embodiments, passive impairmentthreshold learning module 1815 automatically adjusts initial passivethreshold 1802 based upon a combination of one or more of passivedifference value 1807 and/or active impairment value 1812. In someembodiments, the adjustment is done similar to that discussed below inrelation to FIG. 16.

Active impairment detection module 1810 uses likelihood of impairmentvalue 1808 to determine whether additional active impairment testing iswarranted. In particular, active impairment detection module 1810compares likelihood of impairment value 1808 with a predeterminedthreshold. In some cases, the predetermined threshold is userprogrammable. Where likelihood of impairment value 1808 exceeds thepredetermined threshold, active impairment detection module 1810 beginsactive impairment testing. Where active impairment testing is to beperformed, active impairment detection module 1810 sends a request 1814to a monitored individual alert module 1885. In turn, monitoredindividual alert module 1885 notifies the monitored individual to beginactive impairment testing. Any process may be used to request that themonitored individual engage in active impairment testing including, butnot limited to, sending a text message or a voice message to themonitored individual via a user detached monitor device. Based upon thedisclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize a variety of methods that may be used to notify the monitoredindividual to begin an active impairment test.

The notice provided to the monitored individual to begin activeimpairment testing includes an indication to accept the active testing.An acceptance input 1887 is provided from monitored individual alertmodule 1885 to active impairment detection module 1810 indicatingwhether the monitored individual has accepted the request to beginmonitoring. Active impairment detection module 1810 waits a defined timeperiod to receive an acceptance via acceptance input 1887. Where themonitored individual fails to accept the test start within the definedtime, active impairment detection module 1810 increases a likelihood ofimpairment value 1813 for the monitored individual and provideslikelihood of impairment value 1813 to a monitoring officer alertreporting module 1830.

Monitoring officer alert reporting module 1830 determines whetherlikelihood of impairment value 1813 warrants sending an alert to amonitoring officer assigned to the monitored individual. This includescomparing likelihood of impairment value 1813 with a predetermined oruser programmable threshold. Where likelihood of impairment value 1813exceeds the predetermined or user programmable threshold, the monitoringofficer is alerted by providing likelihood of impairment value 1813 as areport to a monitoring officer 1803 assigned to the monitoredindividual. Any process may be used to provide report 1803 to themonitoring officer including, but not limited to, sending a text messageor a voice message to the monitoring officer. Based upon the disclosureprovided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize avariety of methods that may be used to notify the monitoring officer. Insome embodiments, where the monitored individual fails to respond to therequest for active testing sent by monitored individual alert module1885, likelihood of impairment value 1813 is increased to a value thatwill strongly encourage the monitoring officer to contact the monitoredindividual directly.

Alternatively, where acceptance input 1887 indicates acceptance ofactive impairment monitoring by the monitored individual, activeimpairment detection module 1810 sends commands via request 1814 andmonitored individual alert module 1885 indicating one or more activitiesin which the monitored individual is commanded to engage. The command,for example, may indicate that: the monitored individual is to walk astraight line while holding a user detached monitor device or standalone testing device such that the straight line can be seen; themonitored individual is to watch a video display on a user detachedmonitor device or stand alone testing device; the monitored individualis to play a video game on a user detached monitor device or stand alonetesting device, or the like. Based upon the disclosure provided herein,one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of commandsthat may be provided to the monitored individual to engage them in anactivity that facilitates active impairment monitoring.

Active impairment detection module 1810 may perform active impairmenttesting similar to that discussed above in relation to one or more ofFIG. 3, FIGS. 8a-8d , FIGS. 8a and 9a-9c , FIGS. 10a-10b , FIGS. 11a-11b, FIG. 12, and/or FIG. 13. In one embodiment, active impairmentdetection module 1810 receives sensed data 1897 from one or more sensorsincluded as part of individual monitoring sensors 1895 while themonitored individual is engaged in the commanded activity, andhistorical data 1892 from historical database 1890. In addition, activeimpairment detection module 1810 receives one or more baseline thresholdvalues 1827 from an active impairment threshold learning module 1825.Baseline threshold values 1827 are used to compare with impairmentinformation created by active impairment detection module 1810 basedupon sensed data 1897. Thus, for example, where the active impairmentmonitoring is limited to the eye movement of the monitored individual,active impairment detection module 1810 receives image data showing theeyes of the monitored individual captured while the monitored individualwatches the displayed video. From this, active impairment detectionmodule 1810 determines characteristics of the eyes of the monitoredindividual and calculates, for example, an average eye movement per timeinterval value for the monitored individual. Active impairment detectionmodule 1810 compares the value calculated based upon sensed data 1897with baseline threshold values 1827. The results of the comparison areused to calculate an active likelihood of impairment value. For example,where a calculated average eye movement per time interval value greatlyexceeds or is significantly lower than baseline threshold values 1827,the active likelihood of impairment value is set to a high valueindicating a high probability that the monitored individual is impaired.Alternatively, where a calculated average eye movement per time intervalvalue only slightly exceeds or is only slightly lower than baselinethreshold values 1827, the active likelihood of impairment value is setto a lower value indicating some probability that the monitoredindividual is impaired. Where, however, other factors such asoversleeping determined based upon historical data 1892 or proximity toa location where impairing substances are known to be sold or used isindicated in historical data 1892, the active likelihood of impairmentvalue is increased to indicate a high probability that the monitoredindividual is impaired. This active likelihood of impairment value isprovided as a likelihood of impairment value 1813 to monitoring officeralert reporting module 1830 which operates as previously described. Inaddition, the active likelihood of impairment value is reported asactive impairment value 1812 to both passive impairment thresholdlearning module 1815 and active impairment threshold learning module1825.

Active impairment threshold learning module 1825 also receives aninitial active threshold 1801 and a monitoring officer input 1838 from amonitoring officer impairment status receiving module 1835. In someembodiments, initial active threshold 1801 may be a generalized baselinethreshold applied to a number of individuals for the particularcharacteristic to which it is applied. In other cases, the initialactive threshold 1801 may be measured, for example, at the time that auser attached monitor device is attached to the monitored individual. Insuch a measurement case, the measured value may then be defined with alower limit of eighty-five (85) percent of the measured value and anupper limit of one hundred, ten (110) percent of the measured value.

In some embodiments, active impairment threshold learning module 1825merely passes initial active threshold 1801 through as baselinethreshold values 1827. In other embodiments, active impairment thresholdlearning module 1825 automatically adjusts initial active threshold 1801based upon a combination of one or more of active impairment value 1812and/or monitoring officer input 1838. In some embodiments, theadjustment is done similar to that discussed below in relation to FIG.18.

When a monitoring officer intervenes with the monitored individual basedupon a report 1803 received from monitoring officer alert reportingmodule 1830, the monitoring officer makes a determination as to whetherthe monitored individual is impaired or not. This determination isprovided as a monitoring officer impairment finding 1804 that isreceived by monitoring officer impairment status receiving module 1835.Monitoring officer impairment status receiving module 1835 may be anycircuit, device and/or software process that is capable of receiving abinary input and providing that binary input as monitoring officer input1838 to active impairment threshold learning module 1825.

Turning to FIG. 15, a flow diagram 1400 shows a method for passiveimpairment testing in accordance with some embodiments. In using thismethod, a likelihood of impairment value for a monitored individual isinitially set to a default value which, in some cases, may be zero. As amonitored individual operates in their normal course of activity, theirgait is repeatedly sensed and calculated. The gait may be sensed usingaccelerometers in one or both of a user detached monitored device and/ora user attached monitor device. In some cases, the gait is defined as alateral acceleration (an acceleration measured normal to the directionof a step) per step. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one ofordinary skill in the art will recognize various other components ofgait in addition to or alternative to side to side motion evident as anindividual walks that can be used in relation to different embodimentsto determine a meaningful change in gait. For example, gait may include,but is not limited to, walking speed, number of steps per minute, andvariance between successive steps that may be used either as analternative to or in addition to the aforementioned lateral accelerationper step.

Further, while the method discussed in relation to FIG. 15 reliesheavily upon an individual's gait to passively determine a likelihood ofimpairment, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize otherpassive tests that may be used in addition to gait or as an alternativeto gait. For example, passive impairment testing may include detectionof eye redness anytime the monitored individual, for example, looks at auser detached monitor device in their normal course of activity. In sucha case, when a monitored individual touches a display of a user detachedmonitor device a camera in the user detached monitor device may beactivated to capture an image of the monitored individual's face. Redeye detection may be used in relation to historical data showing that,for example, the monitored individual did not sleep the night before andwas out moving, thus increasing the possibility the red eye was fromlack of sleep and not a chemical impairment. As yet another example,passive impairment may be indicated when a monitored individual has notbeen moving (e.g., is passed out) for an above normal period of time.Such immobility may be mitigated by, for example, elevated bodytemperature indicative of perhaps physical illness rather than achemically induced impairment. Based on the disclosure provided herein,one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize other passive tests thatmay be used.

Following flow diagram 1400, it is determined whether the sensed andcalculated gait of a monitored individual has changed when compared witha baseline gait threshold for the monitored individual (block 1405). Thebaseline gait threshold includes a range of gait values between an uppervalue and lower value between which the monitoring of the monitoredindividual's gait is not considered worthy of additional attention. Whenthe gait of the monitored individual is determined to be outside of thethreshold range, additional attention to the potential that themonitored individual is impaired is desirable. Using the example wheregait is defined as the sway from side to side as an individual iswalking forward and is expressed as lateral acceleration per step, thebaseline gait threshold may define a lower limit of lateral accelerationper step and an upper limit of lateral acceleration per step betweenwhich the monitored individual is considered to be normal. Based uponthe disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize various other components of gait that may be expressed in abaseline gait threshold.

In some cases, the initial baseline gait threshold may be a generalizedbaseline gait threshold applied to a number of individuals. In othercases, the initial baseline gait threshold may be measured, for example,at the time that a user attached monitor device is attached to themonitored individual. The baseline gait threshold may then be definedwith a lower limit of eighty-five (85) percent of the measured value andan upper limit of one hundred, ten (110) percent of the measured value.Using the example above where the initial baseline gait threshold isexpressed as lateral acceleration per step, the monitored individualcould be asked to walk a straight line and the average lateralacceleration per step is measured/calculated. The upper and lower limitsare then calculated and stored for later use in determining impairment.Where the initial baseline gait threshold is a general value or ismeasured for the monitored individual, in some embodiments the baselinegait threshold can be automatically adjusted over time using a learningalgorithm such as that described below in relation to FIG. 16.

Where it is determined that the sensed and/or calculated gait of themonitored individual is less than or greater than the baseline gaitthreshold (block 1405), a likelihood of impairment value for themonitored individual is increased as a function of the change in gait(block 1410). Thus, for example, where the sensed and/or calculated gaitof the monitored individual is much larger than the baseline gaitthreshold, the likelihood of impairment value for the monitoredindividual is increased by a large amount. In contrast, where the sensedand/or calculated gait of the monitored individual is only slightlylarger than the baseline gait threshold, the likelihood of impairmentvalue for the monitored individual is increased by a small amount. Thelarge amount may be sufficient by itself to trigger additional activeimpairment testing. In contrast, the small amount may be insufficient byitself to trigger additional active impairment testing, but when coupledwith other factors may be raised to a level that would trigger aadditional active impairment testing.

In one particular embodiment, where the measured and/or calculated gaitof the monitored individual exceeds the upper limit of the baseline gaitthreshold by more than ten (10) percent or the measured and/orcalculated gait of the monitored individual is less than ninety (90)percent of the lower limit of the baseline gait threshold, thelikelihood of impairment value for the monitored individual is set tothe value that will trigger additional active impairment testing.Alternatively, where the measured and/or calculated gait of themonitored individual exceeds the upper limit of the baseline gaitthreshold by less than or equal to ten (10) percent or the measuredand/or calculated gait of the monitored individual is more than or equalto ninety (90) percent of the lower limit of the baseline gaitthreshold, the likelihood of impairment value for the monitoredindividual is set to seventy-five (75) percent of the value that willtrigger additional active impairment testing. Based upon the disclosureprovided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize otherfunctions for defining the likelihood of impairment for the monitoredindividual.

Where the measured and/or calculated gait of the monitored individual isbetween the upper limit of the baseline gait threshold and the lowerlimit of the baseline gait threshold (block 1405), the likelihood ofimpairment of the monitored individual is decreased by a default amount(block 1412). This default amount may be, for example, twenty-five (25)percent of the current likelihood of impairment value for the monitoredindividual. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinaryskill in the art will recognize other default values by which thelikelihood of impairment of the monitored individual is decreased inaccordance with different embodiments.

It is determined whether the monitored individual has been reasonablyimmobile or less active for a defined period of time (block 1415). Thelevel of mobility and period of time are selected to allow for amonitored individual to exhibit resting heart rate, respiration, and/orperspiration levels. Where the level of activity and time period is suchthat resting measurements may be obtained and relied upon (block 1415),the heart rate of the individual is measured and compared with a heartrate threshold (block 1420). The heart rate threshold may be derivedeither be a generalized heart rate for an individual of the age andweight of the monitored individual, or may be derived from a heart ratemeasured at, for example, the time that a user attached monitored deviceis attached to the monitored individual. The heart rate threshold is arange from an upper limit to a lower limit. In some cases, the lowerlimit is eighty-five (85) percent of the expected or measured heartrate, and the upper limit of one hundred, ten (110) percent of theexpected or measured heart rate.

Where it is determined that the sensed and/or calculated heart rate ofthe monitored individual is less than or greater than the heart ratethreshold (block 1420), a likelihood of impairment value for themonitored individual is increased as a function of the change in heartrate (block 1425). Thus, for example, where the sensed and/or calculatedheart rate of the monitored individual is much larger than the heartrate threshold, the likelihood of impairment value for the monitoredindividual is increased by a relatively large amount, and where thesensed and/or calculated heart rate of the monitored individual is onlyslightly larger than the heart rate threshold, the likelihood ofimpairment value for the monitored individual is increased by arelatively small amount. The large amount may be sufficient when addedto a finding that the gait of the monitored individual is outside of anexpected range to trigger additional active impairment testing. Incontrast, the small amount may be insufficient by itself or incombination with a finding that the gait of the monitored individual isonly slightly outside of an expected range to trigger additional activeimpairment testing. But, when the small amount is coupled with a findingthat the gait of the monitored individual is only slightly outside of anexpected range and another factor would be sufficient to triggeradditional active determination of impairment of the monitoredindividual.

Using the particular embodiment discussed above where the gait of theindividual less than ten (10) percent outside of the baseline gatethreshold results in the likelihood of impairment value for themonitored individual is set to seventy-five (75) percent of the valuethat will trigger additional active impairment testing, a finding of aheart rate more than ten (10) percent higher than the upper limit of theheart rate threshold or less than ninety (90) percent of the lower limitof the heart rate threshold would result in the likelihood of impairmentvalue for the monitored individual being increased to one hundred (100)percent of the value that will trigger additional active impairmenttesting. Alternatively, a finding of a heart rate less than or equal toten (10) percent higher than the upper limit of the heart rate thresholdor greater than or equal to ninety (90) percent of the lower limit ofthe heart rate threshold would result in the likelihood of impairmentvalue for the monitored individual being increased by 12.5 percent ofthe value that will trigger additional active impairment testing. Basedupon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the artwill recognize other functions for defining the likelihood of impairmentfor the monitored individual.

The respiration rate of the individual is measured and compared with arespiration rate threshold (block 1430). The respiration rate thresholdmay either be derived from a generalized respiration rate for anindividual of the age and weight of the monitored individual, or may bederived from a respiration rate measured at, for example, the time thata user attached monitored device is attached to the monitoredindividual. The respiration rate threshold is a range from an upperlimit to a lower limit. In some cases, the lower limit is eighty-five(85) percent of the expected or measured respiration rate, and the upperlimit of one hundred, ten (110) percent of the expected or measuredrespiration rate.

Where it is determined that the sensed and/or calculated respirationrate of the monitored individual is less than or greater than therespiration rate threshold (block 1430), a likelihood of impairmentvalue for the monitored individual is increased as a function of thechange in respiration rate (block 1435). Thus, for example, where thesensed and/or calculated respiration rate of the monitored individual ismuch larger than the respiration rate threshold, the likelihood ofimpairment value for the monitored individual is increased by arelatively large amount, and where the sensed and/or calculatedrespiration rate of the monitored individual is only slightly largerthan the respiration rate threshold, the likelihood of impairment valuefor the monitored individual is increased by a relatively small amount.The large amount may be sufficient when added to a finding that the gaitof the monitored individual is outside of an expected range to triggeradditional active impairment testing. In contrast, the small amount maybe insufficient by itself or in combination with a finding that the gaitof the monitored individual is only slightly outside of an expectedrange to trigger additional active impairment testing. But, when thesmall amount is coupled with a finding that the gait of the monitoredindividual is only slightly outside of an expected range and anotherfactor would be sufficient to trigger additional active impairmenttesting.

Using the particular embodiment discussed above where the gait of theindividual less than ten (10) percent outside of the baseline gatethreshold results in the likelihood of impairment value for themonitored individual is set to seventy-five (75) percent of the valuethat will trigger additional active determination of impairment, afinding of a respiration rate more than ten (10) percent higher than theupper limit of the respiration rate threshold or less than ninety (90)percent of the lower limit of the heart rate threshold would result inthe likelihood of impairment value for the monitored individual beingincreased to one hundred (100) percent of the value that will triggeradditional active determination of impairment. Alternatively, a findingof a respiration rate less than or equal to ten (10) percent higher thanthe upper limit of the respiration rate threshold or greater than orequal to ninety (90) percent of the lower limit of the respiration ratethreshold would result in the likelihood of impairment value for themonitored individual being increased by 12.5 percent of the value thatwill trigger additional active determination of impairment. Based uponthe disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize other functions for defining the likelihood of impairment forthe monitored individual.

The location of the monitored individual is received and used todetermine if the monitored individual is within the vicinity of anidentified location within a defined time window (block 1450). Theidentified location may be a location known to have, for example, barswhere impairing products are sold or consumed. Based upon the disclosureprovided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize avariety of locations and/or corresponding locations that may be includedas identified locations in accordance with various embodiments. Theremay be a number of identified locations, and the location of themonitored individual may be compared with a number of identifiedlocations. In some cases, the location of the monitored individual isdetermined using locating systems included in one or both of a userdetached monitor device and/or a user attached monitor device associatedwith the monitored individual. The time window may be a periodsufficient to allow the effects of a chemical substance to render aperson impaired. Thus, for example, the time period may be any timebetween the present time and three hours prior.

Where it is determined that the monitored individual was within adefined range of an identified location within a defined time period(block 1450), the likelihood of impairment value for the monitoredindividual is increased (block 1455). The increase is insufficient totrigger additional active determination of impairment of the monitoredindividual where proximity to the identified location within the definedtime period is the only indicator or impairment that is received. On theother hand, the increase is sufficient to trigger additional activeimpairment testing of the monitored individual where proximity to theidentified location within the defined time period is found in additionto a finding a gait change greater than the baseline gait threshold inblock 1405.

Using the particular embodiment discussed above where the gait of theindividual less than ten (10) percent outside of the baseline gatethreshold results in the likelihood of impairment value for themonitored individual is set to seventy-five (75) percent of the valuethat will trigger additional active impairment testing, a finding of themonitored individual within proximity of an identified location resultsin increasing the likelihood of impairment value for the monitoredindividual by twenty-five (25) percent of the value that will triggeradditional active impairment testing. Based upon the disclosure providedherein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize other functionsfor defining the likelihood of impairment for the monitored individual.

The calculated likelihood of impairment is reported for the passivetesting (block 1460). As more fully discussed below, this calculatedlikelihood of impairment of the monitored individual calculated duringpassive testing is used to determine whether additional activedetermination of impairment is to be performed.

Turning to FIG. 16, a flow diagram 1500 shows a method for learning animpairment threshold for passive impairment testing based upon feedbackfrom the method of FIG. 17 discussed below (e.g., blocks 1685, 1690). Inparticular, a likelihood of impairment of the monitored individual thatis calculated based upon activities the monitored individual is directedto perform as discussed below in relation to blocks 1685, 1690 of FIG.17 is provided as the feedback of block 1515. This feedback value isused to update the individual baseline gait threshold that is used todetermine likelihood of impairment of the monitored individual duringthe passive impairment testing discussed above in the method of FIG. 15.

Following flow diagram 1500, an initial baseline gait threshold isprovided (block 1505). As discussed above in relation to FIG. 15, thisinitial baseline gait threshold may be a generalized baseline gaitthreshold applied to a number of individuals. In other cases, theinitial baseline gait threshold may be measured, for example, at thetime that a user attached monitor device is attached to the monitoredindividual. The baseline gait threshold may then be defined with a lowerlimit of eighty-five (85) percent of the measured value and an upperlimit of one hundred, ten (110) percent of the measured value. Using theexample above where the initial baseline gait threshold is expressed aslateral acceleration per step, the monitored individual could be askedto walk a straight line and the average lateral acceleration per step ismeasured/calculated. The upper and lower limits are then calculated andstored for later use in determining impairment.

An individual baseline gait threshold is initially set equal to theinitial baseline gait threshold (block 1510). This individual baselinegait threshold is the threshold used in block 1405 of FIG. 15, and isupdated as discussed in the method of flow diagram 1500 based upon thelikelihood of impairment of the monitored individual that is calculatedbased upon activities the monitored individual is directed to perform.

It is determined whether the likelihood of impairment of the monitoredindividual that is calculated based upon activities the monitoredindividual is directed to perform is available (block 1515). Suchfeedback becomes available each time additional active determination ofimpairment of the monitored individual is triggered. Where such feedbackis not available (block 1515), the current individual baseline gaitthreshold is provided to a passive impairment testing module (block1590). As mentioned above, this individual baseline gait threshold isused to determine likelihood of impairment of the monitored individualduring the passive impairment monitoring discussed in the method of FIG.15.

Alternatively, where feedback data is available (block 1515), an activeimpairment threshold is subtracted from a function of the likelihood ofimpairment of the monitored individual reported as a result of activeimpairment testing (block 1520). The active impairment threshold may beone or a combination of impairment thresholds used during activeimpairment testing (see e.g., the threshold(s) used in block 1670 ofFIG. 17). The function of the likelihood of impairment of the monitoredindividual reported as a result of active impairment testing may have anoutput equal to the active impairment threshold when the activeimpairment threshold is not met (i.e., active impairment testing doesnot indicate a likelihood that the monitored individual is impaired).This results in a value of zero for the subtraction performed in block1520. Where, on the other hand, the active impairment threshold is met(i.e., active impairment testing indicates a likelihood that themonitored individual is impaired), the function of the likelihood ofimpairment of the monitored individual reported has an outputproportional to an amount of variance of the likelihood of impairmentfrom the active impairment threshold. Thus, where the active impairmenttesting indicates a likelihood of impairment (see e.g., block 1670 ofFIG. 17), the result of the subtraction performed in block 1520 with amagnitude that is proportional to the likelihood of impairment of themonitored individual reported as a result of active impairment testing.

The magnitude of the result of the subtraction is compared with aprogrammable large threshold value (block 1530). Where magnitude exceedsthe programmable large threshold (block 1530), it indicates that theindividual baseline gait threshold value that was used in triggeringadditional active determination of impairment of the monitoredindividual resulted in an accurate discernment of impairment when activeimpairment testing was applied. In such a case, the individual baselinegait threshold value is modified by an amount proportional to themagnitude of the subtraction of block 1520 (e.g., a large default valueas the magnitude exceeded the large threshold of block 1530). Inparticular, where it was the lower end of the individual baseline gaitthreshold range (block 1535) that triggered the additional activedetermination of impairment of the monitored individual as discussedabove in relation to block 1405 of FIG. 15, the large default value isadded to the lower value of the range of the individual baseline gaitthreshold value (block 1540). Alternatively, where it was the upper endof the individual baseline gait threshold range (block 1535) thattriggered the additional active determination of impairment of themonitored individual as discussed above in relation to block 1405 ofFIG. 15, the large default value is subtracted from the upper value ofthe range of the individual baseline gait threshold value (block 1545).This results in an individual baseline gait threshold value that is moresensitive.

Alternatively, it is determined whether the magnitude of the result ofthe subtraction is less than the large threshold (block 1530), themagnitude of the result of the subtraction is compared with aprogrammable small threshold value (block 1550). Where magnitude exceedsthe programmable small threshold (block 1550), it indicates that theindividual baseline gait threshold value that was used in triggeringadditional active determination of impairment of the monitoredindividual resulted in an accurate discernment of impairment when activeimpairment testing was applied. In such a case, the individual baselinegait threshold value is modified by an amount proportional to themagnitude of the subtraction of block 1520 (e.g., a small default valueas the magnitude exceeded only the small threshold of block 1550). Inparticular, where it was the lower end of the individual baseline gaitthreshold range (block 1555) that triggered the additional activedetermination of impairment of the monitored individual as discussedabove in relation to block 1405 of FIG. 15, a small default value isadded to the lower value of the range of the individual baseline gaitthreshold value (block 1560). Alternatively, where it was the upper endof the individual baseline gait threshold range (block 1555) thattriggered the additional active determination of impairment of themonitored individual as discussed above in relation to block 1405 ofFIG. 15, the small default value is subtracted from the upper value ofthe range of the individual baseline gait threshold value (block 1565).This results in an individual baseline gait threshold value that is moresensitive.

Where, on the other hand, neither the upper threshold (block 1530) northe lower threshold (block 1550) is exceeded, it indicates that theindividual baseline gait threshold value that was used in triggeringadditional active determination of impairment of the monitoredindividual resulted in an inaccurate discernment of impairment whenactive impairment testing was applied. In such a case, where it was thelower end of the individual baseline gait threshold range (block 1570)that triggered the additional active determination of impairment of themonitored individual as discussed above in relation to block 1405 ofFIG. 15, a medium default value is subtracted from the lower value ofthe range of the individual baseline gait threshold value (block 1575).Alternatively, where it was the upper end of the individual baselinegait threshold range (block 1570) that triggered the additional activedetermination of impairment of the monitored individual as discussedabove in relation to block 1405 of FIG. 15, the medium default value isadded to the upper value of the range of the individual baseline gaitthreshold value (block 1580). This results in an individual baselinegait threshold value that is less sensitive.

The recently updated individual baseline gait threshold is provided to apassive impairment testing module (block 1590). As mentioned above, thisindividual baseline gait threshold is used to determine likelihood ofimpairment of the monitored individual during the passive impairmentmonitoring discussed in the method of FIG. 15.

Turning to FIG. 17, a flow diagram 1600 shows a method for detectingimpairment using a tiered series of passive impairment testing, activeimpairment testing, and monitoring officer intervention in accordancewith some embodiments. Following flow diagram 1600, passive impairmenttesting is performed on an ongoing basis (block 1605). Such passiveimpairment testing may include one or more impairment tests that areperformed without the active involvement of the monitored individual.For example, the passive impairment tests may include some combinationof: a passive balance test where the gait of the monitored individual ismonitored using accelerometers included in one or both of a userattached monitor device or a user detached monitor device, a change inrespiration levels outside of an increase expected from a detectedamount of movement of the individual, a change in perspiration levelsoutside of an increase expected from a detected amount of movement ofthe individual, a change in heart rate outside of an increase expectedfrom a detected amount of movement of the individual, red eye detection,a change in activity level of the monitored individual, and/or thelocation of a monitored individual at or near a location where alcoholor other impairing substances are known to be consumed. In some cases,the passive impairment testing is done in accordance with the methodsdiscussed above in relation to FIGS. 15-16. Based upon the disclosureprovided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize avariety of passive impairment tests that may be applied eitherseparately or in combination to discern likelihood of impairment of themonitored individual.

A likelihood of impairment of the monitored individual is modified toreflect results provided from the ongoing passive impairment test (block1610). This may include, for example, updating a likelihood that amonitored individual is impaired to be equal to the calculatedlikelihood of impairment value received from a passive impairmenttesting module. This passive impairment testing module may operate, forexample, similar to that discussed above in relation to FIG. 15.

It is determined whether the modified likelihood of impairment satisfiesa passive impairment threshold (i.e., whether the modified likelihood ofimpairment reasonably indicates a monitored individual isimpaired)(block 1615). In some cases, the passive impairment thresholdmay be an individual baseline threshold that is dynamically adjustedbased upon prior findings similar to that discussed above in relation toFIG. 16. Alternatively, in other cases the passive impairment thresholdis a user programmable threshold that does not change unlessre-programmed by a user.

Where the modified likelihood of impairment indicates a likelihood thatthe monitored individual is impaired (block 1615), the monitoredindividual is notified to begin active impairment testing (block 1620).Any process may be used to request that the monitored individual engagein active impairment testing including, but not limited to, sending atext message or a voice message to the monitored individual via a userdetached monitor device. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, oneof ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of methods thatmay be used to notify the monitored individual to begin an activeimpairment test.

The notice provided to the monitored individual to begin activeimpairment testing includes an indication to accept the active testing.It is determined whether the monitored individual accepted the teststart (block 1625) within sufficient time (i.e., some predetermined timelimit to accept, such as, for example, one hour or less) (block 1630).Where the monitored individual fails to accept the test start within thedefined time (blocks 1625, 1630), a likelihood of impairment for themonitored individual is increased to at least one hundred (100) percentof the value required to trigger a request for intervention by amonitoring officer (block 1635).

Alternatively, where the monitored individual accepts the test startwithin the defined time (blocks 1625, 1630), active impairment testingis performed (block 1650). Such active impairment testing may include,but is not limited to, monitoring stability of monitored individual asthe monitored individual is walking or otherwise moving as directed inthe test, monitoring individual's reaction time as directed in a test,and/or monitoring individual's eye movement as the individual watches adefined video program. Other active impairment tests may be used eitherseparately or in combination with one or more of the aforementionedtests and include, but are not limited to, changes in heart rate,changes in body temperature, changes in breathing, and/or perspiration.In some cases, the active impairment testing may be performed similar tothat discussed above in relation to FIG. 3. In various cases, the activeimpairment testing may be performed similar to that discussed above inrelation to FIGS. 8a-8d . In one or more cases, the active impairmenttesting may be performed similar to that discussed above in relation toFIGS. 8a and 9a-9c . In some cases, the active impairment testing may beperformed similar to that discussed above in relation to FIGS. 10a-10b .In one or more cases, the active impairment testing may be performedsimilar to that discussed above in relation to FIGS. 11a-11b . Invarious cases, the active impairment testing may be performed similar tothat discussed above in relation to FIG. 12. In various cases, theactive impairment testing may be augmented to include historical baseddata similar to that discussed above in relation to FIG. 13. Based onthe disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize a variety of active impairment tests that may be appliedeither separately or in combination.

The likelihood of impairment for the monitored individual is modified toreflect results provided from the active impairment testing (block1665). This may include, for example, updating a likelihood that amonitored individual is impaired to be equal to the calculatedlikelihood of impairment value received from an active impairmenttesting module. This active impairment testing module may operate, forexample, similar to that discussed above in relation to one or more ofFIG. 3, FIGS. 8a-8d , FIGS. 9a-9c , FIGS. 10a-10b , FIGS. 11a-11b , FIG.12, and/or FIG. 13.

It is determined whether the modified likelihood of impairment satisfiesan active impairment threshold (i.e., whether the modified likelihood ofimpairment reasonably indicates a monitored individual isimpaired)(block 1670). In some cases, the active impairment thresholdmay be an individual baseline threshold that is actively adjusted basedupon prior findings similar to that discussed below in relation to FIG.18. Alternatively, in other cases the active impairment threshold is auser programmable threshold that does not change unless re-programmed bya user.

Where the modified likelihood of impairment indicates a likelihood thatthe monitored individual is impaired (block 1670), the likelihood ofimpairment is reported to a monitoring officer assigned to the monitoredindividual (block 1675). This reporting may be done, for example, bysending a text message or a voice message to the monitoring officer.Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in theart will recognize a variety of methods that may be used to report thefinding of a likelihood of impairment to the monitoring officer.

The monitoring officer then follows up with a monitoring officerintervention (block 1680). Such monitoring officer intervention mayinclude, but is not limited to, a video chat between the monitoringofficer and the monitored individual via a user detached monitor deviceassociated with the monitored individual, an in person interview wherethe monitoring officer is dispatched to the location of the monitoredindividual, the monitored individual being directed to a substancetesting laboratory where a blood, urine, or other test is applied todetermine chemical impairment. The monitoring officer indicates thateither the individual was impaired or not impaired.

The results from the active impairment testing are provided to an activeimpairment baseline learning module and a passive impairment baselinelearning module (blocks 1685, 1690). The passive impairment baselinelearning module uses the reported results from the active impairmenttesting to update the passive impairment baseline or threshold used inblock 1615. In some cases, the passive impairment threshold learningmodule operates similar to that described above in relation to FIG. 16.The results from the officer follow up are provided to an activeimpairment baseline learning module (block 1690). The active impairmentbaseline learning modules the reported results from the officer followto update the active impairment threshold used in block 1670. In somecases, the active impairment threshold learning module operates similarto that described below in relation to FIG. 18.

Turning to FIG. 18, a flow diagram 1700 shows a method for learning animpairment threshold for active impairment testing based upon feedbackfrom the method of FIG. 17 discussed above (e.g., block 1690). Inparticular, an indication of whether the monitoring officer foundimpairment in block 1680 of FIG. 17 is provided as feedback. Thisfeedback value is used to update the individual active impairmentthreshold that is used to determine likelihood of impairment of themonitored individual during the active impairment testing discussed inthe method of FIG. 16 (or any of FIG. 3, FIGS. 8a-8d , FIGS. 9a-9c ,FIGS. 10a-10b , FIGS. 11a-11b , FIG. 12, and/or FIG. 13).

Following flow diagram 1700, an initial active impairment threshold isprovided (block 1705). This initial active impairment threshold may be ageneralized active impairment threshold applied to a number ofindividuals. In other cases, the initial active impairment threshold maybe measured, for example, at the time that a user attached monitordevice is attached to the monitored individual. The active impairmentthreshold may then be defined with a lower limit of eighty-five (85)percent of the measured value and an upper limit of one hundred, ten(110) percent of the measured value. Using the example where thethreshold is for an amount of eye movement, the monitored individual maybe asked to watch a video during which their eye movement is monitoredand quantified. The upper and lower limits of the active impairmentthreshold are then calculated and stored from the quantified eyemovement for later use in determining impairment.

An individual active impairment threshold is initially set equal to theinitial active impairment threshold (block 1710). This individual activeimpairment threshold is the threshold used in block 1670 of FIG. 17, andis updated as discussed in the method of flow diagram 1700 based uponthe likelihood of impairment of the monitored individual that iscalculated based upon activities the monitored individual is directed toperform.

It is determined whether a monitoring officer indicated that themonitored individual was impaired in a prior testing process (block1715). Such feedback becomes available each time additional activedetermination of impairment of the monitored individual indicates alikelihood of impairment and an intervening monitoring officer followsup with a finding that the monitored individual is impaired.

Where the monitoring officer finds impairment (block 1715) and it wasthe lower end of the individual active impairment threshold range (block1735) that triggered the officer intervention as discussed above inrelation to blocks 1670-1680 of FIG. 17, a first programmable value isadded to the lower value of the range of the individual activeimpairment threshold (block 1740). Alternatively, where the monitoringofficer finds impairment (block 1715) and it was the upper end of theindividual active impairment threshold range (block 1735) that triggeredthe officer intervention as discussed above in relation to blocks1670-1680 of FIG. 17, a second programmable value is subtracted fromupper value of the range of the individual active impairment threshold(block 1745). This results in an individual active impairment thresholdvalue that is more sensitive.

Alternatively, where the monitoring officer does not find impairment(block 1715) and it was the lower end of the individual activeimpairment threshold range (block 1770) that triggered the officerintervention as discussed above in relation to blocks 1670-1680 of FIG.17, a third programmable value is subtracted from the lower value of therange of the individual active impairment threshold (block 1775).Alternatively, where the monitoring officer does not find impairment(block 1715) and it was the upper end of the individual activeimpairment threshold range (block 1770) that triggered the officerintervention as discussed above in relation to blocks 1670-1680 of FIG.17, a fourth programmable value is added to the upper value of the rangeof the individual active impairment threshold (block 1780). This resultsin an individual active impairment threshold value that is lesssensitive.

The recently updated individual active impairment threshold is providedto an active impairment testing module (block 1790). As mentioned above,this individual active impairment threshold is used to determinelikelihood of impairment of the monitored individual during the activeimpairment monitoring discussed in the method of FIG. 17.

Turning to FIG. 19, a flow diagram 1900 shows a method in accordancewith some embodiments for selectively triggering a testing process basedupon one or more conditions. Thus, for example, the process of startinga monitored individual response test as discussed above in relation toFIGS. 2a-2b may be automatically triggered based upon one or morepre-determined conditions including, but not limited to, a predeterminedtesting schedule, the monitored individual moving into an area wheretravel is precluded (i.e. an exclusion zone), or the monitoredindividual moving near a location where testing would be required (e.g.,within range of a fixed location based station deployed at theindividual's residence or treatment provider). Similarly, the testsdiscussed in, inter alia, FIGS. 8a-8d, 9a-9c, 10a-10b, and/or 11a-11bmay be automatically triggered.

Following flow diagram 1900, it is determined whether a time for ascheduled test has arrived (block 1905). This may be determined, forexample, by comparing a real time clock with a number of pre-determinedevent times. Where a time has arrived (block 1905), the correspondingtest is triggered (block 1920). Alternatively, where the location of themonitored individual is out of a defined area (i.e., the monitoredindividual has moved into an exclusion zone) (block 1910), apre-selected test is triggered (block 1920). Alternatively, where thelocation of a monitored individual is within range of, for example, afixed location base station a within range condition is met (block1915), a pre-selected test is triggered (block 1920). Based upon thedisclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize a variety of conditions that may automatically trigger testingin accordance with one or more embodiments.

In conclusion, the present invention provides for novel systems,devices, and methods for identifying impairment using measurementdevices. While detailed descriptions of one or more embodiments of theinvention have been given above, various alternatives, modifications,and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art withoutvarying from the spirit of the invention. Therefore, the abovedescription should not be taken as limiting the scope of the invention,which is defined by the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for determining deviation from a balancenorm, the system comprising: a user detached monitor device, wherein theuser detached monitor device includes: a camera; an accelerometer; adisplay; a processor; and a computer readable medium includingnon-transitory instructions executable by the processor to: capture animage of a monitored individual showing the monitored individual movingin accordance with a movement instruction; receive movement data fromthe accelerometer time correlated to the image of the monitoredindividual; generate a balance characteristic based at least in part onthe movement data; and compare the balance characteristic with abaseline balance threshold.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein thebaseline balance threshold is specific to the monitored individual. 3.The system of claim 1, wherein the baseline balance threshold is genericto multiple monitored individuals.
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein themovement instruction is an instruction to walk in a straight line, andwherein the balance characteristic is a lateral acceleration per step.5. The system of claim 1, wherein the movement instruction is aninstruction to stand on one foot, and wherein the balance characteristicis a lateral acceleration per time period.
 6. The system of claim 1,wherein the computer readable medium further includes instructionsexecutable by the processor to: based at least in part on the comparisonof the balance characteristic with the baseline balance threshold,report that the monitored individual is likely impaired.
 7. The systemof claim 6, wherein the monitored individual is considered likelyimpaired when the balance characteristic is more than ten percentgreater than the baseline balance threshold.
 8. The system of claim 6,wherein the monitored individual is considered likely impaired when thebalance characteristic is more than twenty percent greater than thebaseline balance threshold.
 9. The system of claim 6, wherein themonitored individual is considered likely impaired when the balancecharacteristic is more than thirty percent greater than the baselinebalance threshold.
 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the system furthercomprises: a user attached monitor device physically attached to themonitored individual; and wherein the computer readable medium furtherincludes instructions executable by the processor to: receive a testsetup request from the user attached monitor device, wherein the testsetup request indicates a balance test; and start the balance test by:enabling the camera and the accelerometer, and requesting that themonitored individual comply with the movement instruction.
 11. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the computer readable medium further includesinstructions executable by the processor to: receive an image of theface of the monitored individual via the camera; and determine theidentity of the monitored individual based at least in part on the imageof the face of the monitored individual.
 12. A method for detectingbalance deviation in a monitored individual, the method comprising:providing a visual instruction to a monitored individual via a displayon a user detached monitor device, wherein the visual instructiondirects the monitored individual to move in a particular way; capturingan image of a monitored individual using a camera on the user detachedmonitor device showing the monitored individual moving in accordancewith an movement instruction; receiving movement data from anaccelerometer on the user detached monitor device, wherein the movementdata is time correlated to the image of the monitored individual;generating a balance characteristic based at least in part on themovement data; and comparing the balance characteristic with a baselinebalance threshold.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the movementinstruction is an instruction to walk in a straight line, and whereinthe balance characteristic is a lateral acceleration per step.
 14. Themethod of claim 12, wherein the movement instruction is an instructionto stand on one foot, and wherein the balance characteristic is alateral acceleration per time period.
 15. The method of claim 12,wherein the computer readable medium further includes instructionsexecutable by the processor to: based at least in part on the comparisonof the balance characteristic with the baseline balance threshold,report that the monitored individual is likely impaired via a wirelesscommunication network.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the monitoredindividual is considered likely impaired when the balance characteristicis more than twenty percent greater than the baseline balance threshold.17. A system for determining balance deviation for a monitoredindividual, the system comprising: a user attached monitor devicephysically coupled to a monitored individual; a user detached monitordevice communicably coupled to the user attached monitor device, whereinthe user detached monitor device includes: an accelerometer; a display;a first processor; and a first computer readable medium including firstinstructions executable by the first processor to: receive movement datafrom the accelerometer time; generate a balance characteristic based atleast in part on the movement data; and compare the balancecharacteristic with a baseline balance threshold; and wherein the userattached monitor device includes: a second processor; and a secondcomputer readable medium including second instructions executable by thesecond processor to transmit a request to begin balance test to the userdetached monitor device via a wireless communication link.
 18. Thesystem of claim 19, wherein the movement instruction is an instructionto walk in a straight line, and wherein the balance characteristic is alateral acceleration per step.
 19. The system of claim 19, wherein themovement instruction is an instruction to stand on one foot, and whereinthe balance characteristic is a lateral acceleration per time period.20. The system of claim 19, wherein the user detached monitor devicefurther includes a camera, and wherein the first computer readablemedium further includes instructions executable by the first processorto: receive an image of the face of the monitored individual via thecamera; and determine the identity of the monitored individual based atleast in part on the image of the face of the monitored individual.